Zach Mercer is arguably one of the leading number 8s in world rugby right now – even if his national side doesn’t see it. Having come back from France as the Top 14 Player of the Year, Mercer has been shedding light on what England fans should expect of Henry Arundell following his own extended stay at Racing 92.
Mercer’s experience in France has made him an expert on Henry Arundell’s prospects in the French capital. Recently confirming his intentions to stay in France for an extra two years, Arundell has ruled himself out of international contention, choosing instead to progress his talents in the now very full French league.
Whilst many were disappointed with the decision, Mercer believes Arundell will come back “ten times” the player he was before. Speaking to The Rugby Pod, Mercer said:
“I actually texted Henry when he started to re-sign at Racing because I think he’s only young and he’s got so many more international caps ahead of him, he’s going to come back from France such a better player.
“The league is just ridiculous and you develop so quickly in that league, and when he comes back in 2-3 years’ time he’ll play for England and that’ll be his jersey, he won’t lose it. Whereas now he might play and he might do a wonder try but he might not be able to cement that jersey.
“Speaking from experience, I had the opportunity and I couldn’t do it”, he added. “I couldn’t cement that jersey at a young age.
“I texted him and I said: ‘I respect your decision massively’, and obviously England might look at it and go ‘Oh we want him back now’, but it’s a long-term process.
“He’s gonna come back in three years time and be ten times better player than he already is, which is scary. And when he comes back he’ll have that 11/14 jersey as his own.”
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