The Six Nations Championship starts on Saturday when Scotland host Ireland, before England start their title-defence at home to France. Ahead of the big kick off, Alex Goode, the injured England and Saracens full-back, selected five players to watch during the competition for The National.
Paul Radley's interview with Alex Goode can be found here
Jonathan Joseph (England)
He will probably be top try scorer. He is the one who gives a real point of difference to the England backline, with his outside break, his footwork and his passing. He is a real dangerous player. If he is playing well I don’t see why you wouldn’t play him at 13 for the Lions. His defensive work is great, he has a kicking game, he has long arms and can reach out and get tries.
Conor Murray (Ireland)
He is outstanding, the heartbeat of the Ireland team, and we have seen how well Munster have been doing with him, too. CJ Stander is a big ball-carrier, but Murray is exceptional. His kicking and work around the field are top class.
Zander Fagerson (Scotland)
Everybody has been talking him up, but it will be interesting to see how he goes in these big Six Nations games. He is good around the park, but it will be interesting to see how he goes in the scrum. He could really put himself in the spotlight for the Lions if he goes well.
Liam Williams (Wales)
Taulupe Faletau is an important player for Wales, as a big, classy ball-carrier, but he has been injured. Williams could be key for them. He recently signed for Saracens, and he can play in my position at full-back. So I am going to say he could be a real star on the wing for Wales!
Sergio Parisse (Italy)
Everything Italy do comes from him. He is a real leader for them in terms of passion, and I can see Italy causing an upset. With Brendan Venter as their backs coach, at home I think they could be dangerous. They have a good coaching set up there.
pradley@thenational.ae
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