3 George Martin

England lock George Martin remains sidelined by a persistent nerve problem in his shoulder that has kept him out of action for nearly a year. His last appearance came in round two of the previous Six Nations against France, and despite rest, the issue failed to resolve. Surgery in the summer ruled him out for the first half of the current campaign, but his recovery has been slower than hoped.

With head coach Steve Borthwick due to name his Six Nations squad in late January, time is running out for the 24-year-old to prove his fitness. The prolonged absence has been frustrating for Martin and his coaches, as ongoing complications continue to delay his return to competitive rugby.

4 Maxime Lucu

France scrum-half Maxime Lucu is in danger of missing the start of the Six Nations after suffering a knee sprain while playing for Bordeaux-Bègles. The 32-year-old completed the full 80 minutes in their Top 14 victory over Racing 92 before the injury was confirmed. His club coach, Yannick Bru, acknowledged that the issue could rule him out of France’s championship opener against Ireland on 5 February in Paris.

Lucu had been expected to feature as back-up to the returning Antoine Dupont. Although the injury is not believed to be severe, its timing leaves France monitoring his recovery closely as they prepare to defend their Six Nations title.

5 Tom Roebuck

England winger Tom Roebuck has spent several months on the sidelines after sustaining a toe injury during the 2025 Quilter Nations Series. The Sale player was hurt when his planted foot twisted awkwardly in a tackle against New Zealand, leaving him with a significant setback. He is now in a race against time to be fit for the start of the 2026 Six Nations.

Current projections suggest a possible return around the first or second weekend of the tournament, which begins with England hosting Wales on 7 February. However, the enforced lay-off threatens to interrupt his momentum at international level and could affect his chances of cementing a long-term place in the England squad.

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