Martin can be even better, says Sinfield

KEVIN Sinfield has claimed Leicester Tigers enforcer George Martin is already a “top player” but believes he can become even better, writes Duncan Bech of PA Sport.

Martin, the star of England’s heartbreaking World Cup semi-final defeat to South Africa, is fully fit after tweaking his knee and could face Scotland in the Six Nations on Saturday.

The 22-year-old, who can operate at lock or blindside flanker, stood toe to toe with the Springboks and his physicality will be a valuable asset.

“Big. Physical. Aggressive. Great ball carrier and he’s one of our better defenders,” said England assistant coach and former Tigers defence coach Sinfield.

“In the semi-final he really stood out on the international stage against some of the biggest, nastiest, most aggressive forwards in the world. He was in and amongst it.

“If selected I have no doubt he’ll leave a mark on somebody.

“He’s already a top player, but he’s going to get better and better.”

England are also considering unleashing Manu Tuilagi against Scotland amid a warning from Sinfield that the midfield powerhouse remains a potent force.

Former Tigers centre Tuilagi is also in contention to make his first appearance of the Guinness Six Nations at Murrayfield, having been sidelined since December because of a groin tear.

It is the latest of many injury setbacks for the 32-year-old Sale Sharks centre, who broke his hand twice at last autumn’s World Cup, ruling him out of the start of the club season.

But Sinfield insists Tuilagi still has plenty to offer the national side.

“I would say this without any doubt – don’t write him off yet,” he said.

“He’s still got some really good years ahead of him and he’s very much a big part of how we move forward and what we are doing here.”