England boss impressed by the development of Marcus Smith

England head coach Eddie Jones has praised the improvement of Harlequins pivot Marcus Smith describing the 22-year-old's development as "really positive".

"I think he is getting a nice balance in his game between understanding the responsibilities of getting the team organised, but then playing what is in front of him." - Jones added as he hinted that Smith could win his first test cap this July in tests against USA and Canada.

It is understood that George Ford could be one of several senior players rested after a gruelling last two seasons, which would open the door for Smith to finally stake a claim. Meanwhile, Owen Farrell is off to South Africa with the British and Irish Lions.

Smith has often featured in England squads in an apprenticeship role and also faced the Barbarians two years ago and impressed in a non-cap match for England. 

Jones said: "What we are seeing from him is more like when he played at Brighton College. I remember watching him in 2015 at Brighton College and when there was something on, he took it and maybe for a period of time he was more likely to be a pattern player.

"And I think he is getting a nice balance in his game between understanding the responsibilities of getting the team organised, but then playing what is in front of him. I think his development is really positive."

The England boss refused to confirm Smith's inclusion in the squad that will be named next week but he had earlier referenced how rugby was changing with a view that by the time of the 2023 World Cup the focus will be on players with "more instinctive skills than pattern rugby".