Thursday 7 January 2016 17:59, UK
Nick Easter is backing Harlequins team-mate Chris Robshaw to continue his fine club form and retain his England place under the new coaching regime.
England head coach Eddie Jones is expected to be at the Stoop on Saturday as Quins entertain Saracens in the Premiership.
Robshaw, waiting to learn his fate both as England captain and team member, gave a fine example of forward play as Harlequins beat Worcester last weekend to move up to third in the standings.
Looking ahead to the weekend game, Easter told Sky Sports News HQ: "It's a bit of a dress rehearsal isn't it I suppose for final selection for a lot of guys. There's a lot of the contingent from the last few years amongst both sides.
"Chris Robshaw has been doing it for England, let alone us, for a number of years now. To just be judged on one tournament [World Cup] I think is a bit harsh because I don't think many people - if any - put their hand up. It's a new coaching regime a new start and he'll be getting stuck in like everybody else will."
Easter is also excited about one of his team-mates who is making a big impression at Quins. Back row forward Jack Clifford was born in Australia to an English mother and could play in the forthcoming Six Nations.
He said: "He [Clifford] has been great. We've obviously had our eye on him from the academy. He has captained the U20s, he was a game changer in that semi-final against New Zealand, wasn't he?
"He's got pedigree and he has shown what a footballer and what a specimen he is. It's a good chance for him if he gets his chance just like it is for everyone else.
Quins coach Conor O'Shea is also excited about Clifford's future, saying: "Jack has played a lot of rugby for us and I think he is going to be an outstanding leader and captain for many years. Luke Wallace captained us to the LV Cup two or three years ago and he is playing great rugby.
"We've got options, that's the biggest thing, because it's not about 15 people who can do a job - it's about 51. It's about your whole squad, your academy and I know Jack's future is huge.
