DIRECTOR of rugby Alan Solomons is convinced “explosive” Worcester Warriors loosehead prop Ethan Waller will play for England.

Waller joined Warriors from Northampton Saints in 2017 and has established himself as a key man in the Sixways side’s pack, racking up 60 appearances.

While uncapped tighthead Nick Schonert has been on the fringes of the England squad his front-row colleague Waller has yet to receive a call from national boss Eddie Jones.

But Solomons believes the 27-year-old, who has signed a new deal that runs until 2022, can make the step up to the international stage.

“Ethan is a terrific bloke,” Solomons said.

“He is a great team man as he is popular with everybody but is a really good rugby player too.

“His work around the park is exceptional and he is a strong scrummager as well.

“I do feel that in time he is going to get an England cap.”

After an injury-hit start to last season Waller eventually found his feet, starting in their final four Premiership matches.

He has also started in three of Warriors’ first five league games of this term.

“It took him a wee bit of time to get back into it (after the injury) but is a fully into it now,” Solomons said.

“He is a class rugby player and has got exceptional skills. He has got a bit of pace too.

“He is an explosive, dynamic athlete, is a good scrummager and is intelligent.

“I rate Ethan very highly.”

Waller has formed a solid partnership with Schonert who has also recently agreed a new undisclosed contract.

“It is absolutely brilliant news for the club that Ethan and Sharky have signed,” Solomons said “It is fantastic for us to have two players of that quality at tighthead and loosehead.”