Ethan Roots, the dynamic back-row forward, might have been overlooked for England's latest squad, but Exeter Chiefs' director of rugby, Rob Baxter, is adamant that Roots' return to the national team is just around the corner. Despite being left out of the 36-man mini-camp for the Autumn Nations Series, Roots' recent performances speak volumes of his potential and persistence.
Roots, who debuted spectacularly for England during the 2024 Six Nations, has since been in and out of the squad. Yet, his impactful appearances, including a Man of the Match performance on debut against Italy in Rome, have kept him on the radar. "I think he just has to carry on with how he is doing," Baxter advised, highlighting Roots' intense pre-season efforts and his critical role at Chiefs.
"That puts him back in the eye (of Steve Borthwick), and I don't think it'll be long before you see him there or thereabouts if he carries on the trajectory he's on."
The competition for back-row positions in the England squad is fierce. With players like Henry Pollock, Ben Earl, Ollie Chessum, Chandler Cunningham-South, Sam Underhill, Alex Coles, Guy Pepper, and Emeka Ilione all vying for spots, Roots faces a tough challenge. However, Baxter sees this as a temporary setback. "I don’t think he’ll be far off," Baxter added, noting the possibility of Roots participating in A games and maintaining his form against upcoming opponents like Gloucester.
Apart from Roots, number eight Greg Fisilau is another Chiefs player making waves and pushing for inclusion in the England setup. Fisilau, a former Wasps standout, has been impressive both at the club level and for England A. Baxter confirmed ongoing discussions about Fisilau with England's coaching staff, especially given Fisilau's recent recovery from injury and return to top form.
"When Steve comes down, we talk about Greg," Baxter revealed. "He’s been in and around the EPS squad, so he’s there or thereabouts."
As the Autumn Nations Series approaches, the blend of seasoned internationals and emerging talent in the England camp continues to evolve, making every selection a critical decision for Steve Borthwick and his coaching team.
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Ethan Roots, the dynamic back-row forward, might have been overlooked for England's latest squad, but Exeter Chiefs' director of rugby, Rob Baxter, is adamant that Roots' return to the national team is just around the corner. Despite being left out of the 36-man mini-camp for the Autumn Nations Series, Roots' recent performances speak volumes of his potential and persistence.
Roots, who debuted spectacularly for England during the 2024 Six Nations, has since been in and out of the squad. Yet, his impactful appearances, including a Man of the Match performance on debut against Italy in Rome, have kept him on the radar. "I think he just has to carry on with how he is doing," Baxter advised, highlighting Roots' intense pre-season efforts and his critical role at Chiefs.
"That puts him back in the eye (of Steve Borthwick), and I don't think it'll be long before you see him there or thereabouts if he carries on the trajectory he's on."
The competition for back-row positions in the England squad is fierce. With players like Henry Pollock, Ben Earl, Ollie Chessum, Chandler Cunningham-South, Sam Underhill, Alex Coles, Guy Pepper, and Emeka Ilione all vying for spots, Roots faces a tough challenge. However, Baxter sees this as a temporary setback. "I don’t think he’ll be far off," Baxter added, noting the possibility of Roots participating in A games and maintaining his form against upcoming opponents like Gloucester.
Apart from Roots, number eight Greg Fisilau is another Chiefs player making waves and pushing for inclusion in the England setup. Fisilau, a former Wasps standout, has been impressive both at the club level and for England A. Baxter confirmed ongoing discussions about Fisilau with England's coaching staff, especially given Fisilau's recent recovery from injury and return to top form.
"When Steve comes down, we talk about Greg," Baxter revealed. "He’s been in and around the EPS squad, so he’s there or thereabouts."
As the Autumn Nations Series approaches, the blend of seasoned internationals and emerging talent in the England camp continues to evolve, making every selection a critical decision for Steve Borthwick and his coaching team.