Leicester's George Martin faces short-term stint on sidelines

Leicester Tigers lock George Martin has been ruled out for a number of weeks with a minor knee injury.

Martin, outside-back Anthony Watson and scrumhalf Jack van Poortvliet will miss this Saturday’s Investec Champions Cup clash against Leinster.

Heyes, Cole, Chessum and Steward named in England squad

In other news, props Dan Cole and Joey Heyes, lock Ollie Chessum and fullback Freddie Steward have been named in England’s squad.

England men’s head coach Steve Borthwick named a 36-player training squad for the forthcoming 2024 Guinness Men's Six Nations Championship which begins on Saturday 3 February when England play Italy at Stadio Olimpico in Rome (kick-off 2.15pm GMT, live on ITV1).

“Building on the foundations of what the England Team achieved in the Rugby World Cup, I have selected a squad that provides strong continuity and experience, whilst at the same time providing an opportunity to develop the talent of a number of new and less experienced players,” said Borthwick.=

“I would particularly like to congratulate the new faces who have their first chance in an England squad, and very much look forward to seeing how that young talent can play an important part in ensuring that England continue to develop our game and move forward.

“The Six Nations is a tremendously entertaining and hugely competitive competition. This year will be no different, and as we prepare for the challenge which awaits us against Italy in Rome, this squad will come together next week for a training camp in Girona.”