Gloucester’s rising star Seb Atkinson makes his 6 Nations debut on Saturday and he won’t be short of support when he lines up for England against Italy in Rome (4.40pm kick off).

The 23-year-old has become a popular figure around these parts since leaving Worcester Warriors in 2022 and his selection has been warmly welcomed.

The inside centre made his England debut on last summer’s tour to Argentina – this will be his third cap – but the 6 Nations is a step up.

“This is a very big deal and his call-up is well-deserved,” said Bob Rumble, a lifelong Gloucester fan and chairman of Kingsholm Supporters Mutual.

“He was so unlucky last year. He was the standout star on the tour to Argentina and then he injured his knee which kept him out for a long time.

“The fact he’s been fast-tracked shows just how highly England rate him.”

Atkinson, who had a 50-minute runout for Gloucester in the 38-26 defeat at Bath in the English Prem Rugby Cup five days ago, is one of 12 changes – nine personnel switches and three positional shifts – made by head coach Steve Borthwick after England’s disappointing defeat at home to Ireland last month.

Atkinson replaces Northampton’s Fraser Dingwall and now he is in the side, Rumble believes he will be difficult to dislodge.

“He’s a big lad, very physical,” he said. “He’s not afraid to go into the valley of the death. He’s fine with contact.

“He’s got a terrific turn of speed and he’s very, very fit. But perhaps his biggest asset is that he’s got a tremendous engine on him.”

Rumble says he’s also got very good hands and he continued: “He’s capable of setting the outside backs on fire.

“His selection is a great filip for him and for the club.”

Rumble believes that Atkinson will be in the England squad for the World Cup in Australia next year along with his club mate Arthur Clark.

Rumble describes the 24-year-old second row as a “proper handful”.

Meanwhile, Gloucester has confirmed that 25-year-old George Barton, who can play full-back or fly-half, has signed a contract extension with the club.