Banned Joe Marler was 'plain stupid', says Stuart Barnes

Joe Marler was "plain stupid" for getting banned and being forced to miss the start of England's Six Nations campaign, says Sky Sports' rugby expert Stuart Barnes.

The loosehead prop was sent off while playing for Harlequins on Saturday after striking Sale Sharks' TJ Ioane with his shoulder.

An independent disciplinary panel handed Marler a six-week ban, meaning he will miss England's first two Six Nations matches, against Italy and Wales.

Barnes said: "Marler is paying a big price. It's just plain stupid and in a professional sport that's worse than being a villain.

"It's a big blow for Eddie Jones in the sense that Ellis Genge and Matt Mullan are injured, so his third and his fourth choice looseheads have disappeared.

"That means there's no real cover for Mako Vunipola, so it looks likely that Beno Obano of Bath is probably going to have to come from nowhere into the squad.

"It has to be said that Marler once again had a moment where his brain and body parted company. He's got to stop doing that."

Another player who will miss the beginning of the tournament is Ben Te'o, whose ankle injury is likely to keep him out for another four weeks.

Barnes was asked who he thought would take the place of the Worcester man, and said: "I think Jonathan Joseph is the likeliest player to replace him.

"Manu Tuilagi is this presence looming in the background. Everyone remembers when England beat New Zealand and he smashed them almost single-handedly.

"But for once I think England are going to take their time. Let him get fit, see if he's found form.

"Henry Slade didn't really crack it as an outside centre. He had his chances and he disappointed me.

"I think Joseph is in pole position."