England head coach Jones spoke to Sky Sports News to reflect on what was learned from the November wins over Tonga, Australia and South Africa, and how he is going to build team for Six Nations
Jones saw plenty in Smith’s performances for Harlequins as they won the Gallagher Premiership title last season to give him a shot. Although he was on the bench for the Tonga match before starting against Australia and South Africa.
Eddie Jones says that Marcus Smith is key to future success but it would be dangerous to try and build a team around him.
“The major thing for me was the consistency he showed for Quins,” Jones, who at the same time is mindful of not placing too much weight on Smith’s shoulders, said. “Him and [England prop] Joe Marler, I think, were absolutely instrumental in that Quins side winning the Premiership.
“He showed a level of game understanding and toughness in his play which made it evident he was ready for international rugby.
“We were lucky enough to have the summer where it was a bit of a soft introduction through Canada and the USA, where he acquitted himself well, then this autumn he’s continued to progress and impress, and we don’t know how good a player he can be.
“Every media outlet at the moment is talking about him as the pin-up boy of England rugby, so we’ve got to make sure we give him the care and support he needs. He’s a good boy, he’s got a good family and I’m sure he’s going to keep heading in the right direction.
