2. George McGuigan (Newcastle Falcons)
The hooker’s hopes of an England recall took another hit as Newcastle were thrashed 52–14 by Harlequins. McGuigan worked hard but made little headway in the loose and couldn’t steady an overwhelmed set-piece.
With Theo Dan, Luke Cowan-Dickie and Tom Dunn all impressing elsewhere, this was a timely but worrying reminder of how far down the pecking order he’s slipped.
At 32, McGuigan needed a big performance to reignite his international ambitions, but instead looked part of a pack that simply couldn’t cope with Quins’ tempo or power.
3. Owen Farrell (Saracens)
A disastrous afternoon for the England skipper-in-waiting as Saracens were torn apart 43–31 by Northampton. Farrell looked off the pace from the start — his kicking radar was misaligned, his decision-making flat, and his trademark intensity never quite arrived.
Saints’ backline played with flair and speed while Farrell and his teammates struggled to contain them. For a player of his stature, this was a worrying display in a match tailor-made for statements.
With England’s midfield competition heating up, Farrell will know he can’t afford too many more anonymous outings like this.
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