Friday 15 July 2016 13:18, UK
The British and Irish Lions will be strong in New Zealand next year, with Eddie Jones' English stars leading the way, says Fran Cotton.
Former England captain, Cotton, went on three Lions tours as a player, and was tour manager in South Africa in 1997.
He spent nine years working in a number of roles with the Rugby Football Union, and has just been made chairman of Sale Sharks, who he expects to provide several players to England.
Cotton says he has been hugely impressed by England since Jones took over - the Aussie has won his first nine matches in charge, incorporating a Six Nations Grand Slam, a friendly win over Wales and a 3-0 series sweep in Australia.
"It was absolutely fantastic to win the Six Nations," Cotton told Sky Sports News HQ. "It is even more impressive to go to Australia and win three Tests. It's easy to go there and win one - but to win three? That is some achievement.
"England are in a good place. We won in Australia, the U20s won the World Cup. The Saxons beat their counterparts in South Africa. English rugby is in a good place at the moment.
"Where Eddie has been good is his selection has been spot on and consistent. He's not afraid of making major decisions, in selection and in games. He exudes confidence all the time and that translates to the players.
"And some talented players are coming through - look at Maro Itoje, at 21, how good is he going to be in four, five years' time? We are still some way to go if we are going to for fulfil ambitions of winning the World Cup. But we have made one hell of a start under Eddie Jones."
A strong England should mean a strong Lions squad in New Zealand next year. The Lions beat Australia three years ago but taking on the world champions will be a significantly tougher prospect.
"Next year I'm sure every player will be excited. It's a tough tour, looking at the itinerary," said Cotton. "I think we have a good chance. We have got a very strong England team. Scotland have improved, Ireland are coming through. We have a good squad - and we will need it.
"The midweek games look just as tough. It's a big challenge - but I think we will do well."
Will there be any Sharks in the Lions squad?
"We are certainly hoping so," Cotton added. "They have to get into the England squad first and they have to play for Sale - and play well for Sale - first. We have some exciting young players and we will be helping them to do as well as they can."
