Come back Zach

■ EXILED Montpellier No 8 Zach Mercer has been offered a World Cup lifeline after an impromptu meeting with Eddie Jones.

Mercer recently caught Jones’ eye during an outing against Castres, after which the England head coach said: ‘I had a quick chat with Zach after the game. I am really impressed. For a young player who has taken the initiative to go and develop his game in another country is absolutely outstanding. We’re hopeful that he’ll come back and try to fight for a spot in the World Cup squad.’