If Eddie Jones does decide to put Nathan Hughes straight into the starting lineup against Scotland on Saturday, my guess is he will play for 60 minutes before the cavalry come on
It comes as no surprise to hear England’s coaches have been glowing about the impact Nathan Hughes has off the field as well as on it. He might not necessarily come across as a larger than life character but from what I hear, around the camp he is a lively guy, he gets things going and he will bring the energy and intensity to another level.
The coaches have talked about how he is with the young players, too – he was Marcus Smith’s room-mate at one of the training camps – and taking on a role that shows he is comfortable in the environment. I’ve played against him a lot. He is very respectful but he wants to play on the edge and have a good time. I’m sure he’ll bring some life to the group and that can be infectious, especially when winning is a habit.
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Scotland do not want to get into an arm wrestle because they will find England too powerful. They have to outthink England
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