New star Jack Willis set to miss out on selection for Saturday’s clash against Ireland at Twickenham despite his impressive try-scoring debut
- The Wasps flanker touched down in the emphatic 40-0 win over Georgia
- The 24-year-old accepts he may have to be patient to claim England spot
- Tom Curry, Sam Underhill and Ben Earl are also pushing for starting places
Jack Willis is in danger of missing the cut for England’s Autumn Nations Cup clash against Ireland at Twickenham on Saturday, despite earning praise for his try-scoring Test debut last weekend.
The Wasps flanker touched down in the emphatic 40-0 win over Georgia, won a breakdown penalty and appeared to settle well into the England line-up operating at openside.
However, when the England squad of 36 is trimmed later on Tuesday, there is a strong chance that Willis will be released back to his club.
England flanker Jack Willis earned praise for his try-scoring Test debut last weekend
A first appearance for his country was due reward for the 24-year-old who won the Premiership and RPA Player of the Year awards last season.
But Willis accepts that he is in a highly-competitive position. With the likes of Tom Curry, Sam Underhill and Ben Earl all pushing for starting places, he may have to be patient.
Reflecting on his debut, Willis said: ‘I loved every second of it. It was something I’ve dreamed of since I was a young lad. I’ve got to improve if I want to keep competing, there’s some pretty special talent in the mix. Everyone in this group would love a chance against Ireland.’