Courtney Lawes and Joe Marchant target England return at Sale

Courtney Lawes and Joe Marchant face a significant hurdle to regain their international spots after joining Sale this summer. England coaches informed the duo they must perform better than their rivals during the first five weeks of the upcoming Premiership season to earn a recall. Both players last represented England at the 2023 World Cup before moving to France. Following their return to the English domestic league, they have publicly declared their ambition to resurrect their international careers. The coaching staff emphasized that simply playing for a Premiership club is insufficient, requiring the players to go over and above the performance levels of their current competitors. This directive sets a clear standard for both veterans as they look to secure a place in the England squad this autumn.

• 5:00 PMThe Guardian Sport — England coaches tell Lawes and Marchant they need to prove themselves in Prem