'How do you justify it if he has been playing well for England and his club?'

Joe Marchant’s impact on the Guinness Six Nations should earn him an extended run in England’s midfield, according to Harlequins attack coach Nick Evans.

Quins’ England quartet are available for Sunday’s Gallagher Premiership derby against London Irish, with Marchant set to be involved alongside Marcus Smith, Alex Dombrandt and Joe Marler.

While Eddie Jones’ men endured a disappointing third-place finish in the Six Nations, Marchant’s continued progression as an international outside centre who can also cover the wing was among the few positive developments.

The 25-year-old ended the championship in dynamic fashion against France and Evans insists he is only just beginning to realise his potential.

“Joe has got his foot in the door, which is important for him now to push on and really make sure that starting position in the England team is nailed on,” Evans said.

“He was arguably one of the players of the game in that French game. He did exceptionally well, he looked dangerous in attack and defensively he looked really solid.

“If March plays well, it is hard to keep him out. How do you justify it if he has been playing well for England and his club?

“Joe has got a really high ceiling. He’s a big confidence player and we have spoken to him about just being decisive and not getting bogged down in structure. If you are in space, stay in space. And if you see space, just attack the space.

“He has matured over the last couple of years. It has allowed him to be a lot more expressive and he is reaping the rewards.”