England talisman in doubt for Six Nations

England talisman Joe Marler might not be fit in time for the Six Nations in February.

After the Harlequins’ victory against the Newcastle Falcons on Friday, rugby director Billy Millard could not provide a specific timeline for Marler’s comeback.

England talisman in doubt

Due to an arm injury sustained during their Big Game 15 victory at Twickenham, the loosehead prop was unable to play in their match at Kingston Park.

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Quins have not disclosed when Marler will be available again despite the player having been sent for a scan.

Harlequins boss issued an update on some of their injured players, including England internationals Danny Care and Marler.

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“I’m hoping DC can make Cardiff next week (in the Champions Cup) and Marler’s probably a little bit longer,” Millard said according to Planet Rugby.

“Will Porter’s got a sore head but he’s fine. I don’t know if it was the pole or the board (he banged into).

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“The sideline’s pretty close to the boards. Adam (Radwan) came up and apologised. He’s such a classy kid. It was nothing malicious.”

Although it was first thought that Marler’s injury was not serious and that he would only miss the Falcons game, Red Rose manager Steve Borthwick may become concerned now that he is set to miss their encounter against Cardiff.

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Borthwick’s headaches

Ellis Genge is in a battle against time to be fit for the start of the competition, and he is already missing Bevan Rodd for the Six Nations.

Positively for Borthwick, Fin Baxter, Marler’s stand-in, was excellent throughout his absence, controlling the set-piece.

Quins advanced to the top of the Premiership standings ahead of Saturday’s games thanks in large part to Baxter’s performance in the win.

“It’s a really important win for us. It was far from perfect but that’s a big win and big points for us,” Millard said.

“We had chances to extend our lead in the first half but we didn’t convert three or four chances. Our scrum was outstanding, it really gave us an early foothold, and our defence was great.

“You’ve just got to keep winning because it’s such a tight competition and everyone else keeps winning. It was massive points for us.”