Jeremy Guscott has made his feelings clear on Henry Pollock, describing the England prospect as an "awesome" talent while admitting one part of his game leaves him cold.
The former England and British and Irish Lions centre believes Pollock should be starting for Steve Borthwick's side, having been hugely impressed by what he has seen from the Northampton Saints flanker.
But Guscott also took aim at Pollock's celebrations, questioning the sportsmanship of some of the 21-year-old's on-field gestures.
Guscott's verdict on Pollock
Speaking to The Telegraph, Guscott said: "He is awesome. Yes, I would start him."
He went on to describe Pollock as "one of the most gifted players we have ever seen as a seven, as a modern-day back-rower", highlighting his speed, passing, tackling, jackalling, strength and kicking ability.
But Guscott was less enthusiastic about the way Pollock celebrates his successes.
"The gestures are personally not for me but other people like it," he said. "For me, it does not show the greatest sportsmanship."
Pollock has rapidly emerged as one of England's most exciting young players and Guscott believes his qualities should make him impossible for Borthwick to ignore.
It comes as Eddie Hearn believes the back-rower should be getting a seven-figure salary at Northampton.
England's direction questioned
The former Bath star's comments come amid wider questions over England's direction as they build towards next year's World Cup.
Guscott believes Borthwick needs to give attack coach Lee Blackett greater influence if England are to make the progress required.
"I think for England to properly succeed at the next World Cup, Borthwick needs to let Lee Blackett have more of an influence," Guscott said.
"We've not seen the Blackett imprint yet, other than in the first half against Argentina and against France. If we don't see it soon then what's the point in having him there?"
Guscott also questioned the way England's players are being managed, suggesting there needs to be greater freedom within the team.
"I look at England sometimes and I think: 'How many of them are enjoying playing? How much say are they having in it?'" he said.
Data reliance and Ojomoh's absence
He also believes England have become too reliant on data when making selection decisions, pointing to the continued absence of Max Ojomoh as an example.
Ojomoh starred for England against Argentina last autumn, being named player of the match, but has not played for the national team since.
"A big decision for me is Max Ojomoh," Guscott said. "He played that game for England, against Argentina last autumn, he was player of the match, and he has not had another minute since. I find that staggering."
He added: "The data only says what has happened – it categorically cannot predict the future. If someone is playing well, pick them."
