Gilmore Backs Dombrandt for England Recall as Harlequins Face Newcastle Red Bulls

Jason Gilmore has backed Alex Dombrandt for an England recall after the Harlequins No. 8 stood out in a struggling side. The chief said Dombrandt is in the form of his life and wants him back in the national squad this summer.

Dombrandt at Kingston Park

Harlequins are due to face Newcastle Red Bulls at Kingston Park with a 3pm kick-off, giving Dombrandt another chance to press his case in front of England selectors. Gilmore said, "Alex is playing the best I have seen him".

Dombrandt has done that while Harlequins have been fighting through a difficult spell, which has made his level more visible rather than less. He has been singled out as a standout performer even as England went in a different direction.

England Left Him Out

England did not select Dombrandt and instead opted for a bevy of openside flankers. His last appearance came against the United States last year, when he won his 23rd cap.

That omission leaves Gilmore's support pointed and public. It also puts a number on the gap Dombrandt has to close if he is to force his way back into the conversation this summer.

Tom Willis Decision

Tom Willis was not considered for England because he has decided to move to France at the end of the season. That removes one of the other selection variables around the No. 8 discussion and narrows the focus back to Dombrandt's form.

For Harlequins, the immediate task is Newcastle at Kingston Park. For Dombrandt, it is a performance that keeps England's door open after a 23rd cap and a year away from the team.