‘He has to be in the international talk’ – England prospect talked up by Gloucester boss

Louis Chapman Coombe

George Skivington has lauded centre Seb Atkinson.

Gloucester director of rugby George Skivington believes star centre Seb Atkinson ‘has to be in the international talk’ following his latest blockbuster Premiership performance.

The 22-year-old centre, who joined Gloucester following the collapse of Worcester Warriors in 2021, has made seven appearances for the Cherry and Whites this season, and again impressed in their 14-0 win over Harlequins last night.

“He has to be in the international talk”

Atkinson was a standout performer for his side in their narrow victory over the London outfit. In attack, he made 18 carries for 69 metres, and also made 19 tackles to boot, including three dominant tackles.

“He’s brilliant. Since day one, we’ve invested in him and I think he’s a brilliant young prospect and a brilliant character,” Skivington said on Atkinson.

“He’s a leader; but he’s not a loud guy he’s quite quiet, but the way he trains and the way he plays, he just packs a way bigger punch than he should.”

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Skivington added: “In my opinion, he’s got to be in the international talk. I’m really pleased with Seb, he’s just a good bloke as well.”

Atkinson certainly faces tough competition to work his way into the England squad, though. Ollie Lawrence and Henry Slade have been Steve Borthwick’s go-to partnership during his time as head coach, and around that Fraser Dingwall, Oscar Beard, Luke Northmore, Max Ojomoh and even Tommy Freeman are also possible options to deploy in the midfield.

But, Skivington feels Atkinson’s ‘unique’ attributes would make him a success at the next level, and feels he would ‘take his opportunity’ if called up.

“There’s been a lot of physically big twelves out there who punch hard, but he’s quite unique,” said the Gloucester DoR. “When I played Stuart Abbott wasn’t a massive 12, but he had great footwork.”

He added: “Seb’s probably similar in stature, but he can run hard and run over you, as well as bang you in defence. He is just a brilliant individual, and if he ever gets an opportunity he’ll take it.”

Despite his youth, Atkinson is already building some solid top-level experience. He has made 49 appearances for Gloucester since his switch from Worcester Warriors, and made 10 senior appearances after progressing through the club’s academy.

There are multiple chances for Atkinson to represent the red rose in 2025, however. The Six Nations squad will be announced next month, with the competition starting on the 31st, and England A are also in action once again as they take on Ireland A at Ashton Gate.

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