Ben Youngs backs Nathan Hughes to fill Billy Vunipola's boots in England's autumn Tests

Ben Youngs is backing Nathan Hughes to again fill the England No8 void created by the knee injury that will keep Billy Vunipola out of the autumn series and could see him miss the start of next year’s Six Nations.

Hughes stepped up after Vunipola was injured against Argentina last November — and now the Fijian-born Wasps forward will be tasked with delivering a similar physical threat against Argentina, Australia and Samoa in November.

England and Leicester scrum-half Youngs said: “The guys are aware that Billy is a huge presence and big cog in this side. However, he was away [injured] last season and Nathan did a great job. He was outstanding in the autumn Tests and the Six Nations. You see the depth we now have in the squad when we lose someone like Billy and Nathan comes in. We are very fortunate to have that.

“We all wish Billy a speedy recovery and would love to have him here, but there are guys who can come in.

“I don’t know why there are the number of injuries this season but the game is becoming hugely demanding. The Premiership is so competitive. Now everyone can compete and it makes every week a tough game which wasn’t the case before.”

A number of casualties were unable to take part in the England training camp at Oxford yesterday, including captain Dylan Hartley, who has a hand injury. Chris Robshaw and Sam Underhill are coming back from concussions, while Marcus Watson has not trained due to a knee injury. Mike Brown has an ankle problem and Joe Marler is still troubled by a rib injury.