Hendy Slade (Exeter Chiefs)
Just back from a nasty leg injury and looking to re-establish himself as a multi-skilled midfield playmaker. In an increasingly crowded field his time on the ball, all-round distribution and long-range goal-kicking make him a tantalising option as a 10, 12 or 13, particularly if Eddie Jones is seeking a little more backline subtlety.
Elliot Daly (Wasps)
Already capped but yet to start a full Test for England. That will have changed by this autumn, possibly sooner. Has the pace and, increasingly, confidence to worry top-level defenders. Wasps’ gathering momentum and hardening spring pitches will also enhance the prospects of a player who can operate at centre or full-back.
Sam Underhill (Ospreys)
Imagine if a rugby-mad scientist could somehow clone Richard Hill with Richie McCaw. The nearest equivalent could just be Underhill, currently studying in Wales but, fitness permitting, already earmarked as a potential England tourist this summer. Definitely the best English prospect you have never seen play.
Jack Clifford (Harlequins)
Another who has been quietly introduced to international rugby during this Six Nations with a view to a long-term future at the highest level. Along with Paul Hill, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Dan Robson, Tom Collins and Harry Mallinder, he represents the rising new wave of English talent hoping to catch Jones’s eye prior to 2019.
Nathan Hughes (Wasps)
Qualifies for England fractionally too late to make this summer’s Australian tour but will be available to the Jones this autumn. Billy Vunipola may have more power but the Fiji-born Hughes has the pace, dynamism and agility to make an equally big impact. While the English heritage may be somewhat limited, Jones is about to take delivery of a ready-made Test No8.
