Jones challenges Itoje to fulfil world-class potential

9:49 AM GMT

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  Tom HamiltonRugby Editor

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  • Joined ESPN in 2011
  • Grew up in Bath but has New Zealand roots
  • Covered England's tour of New Zealand in 2014 and Australia in 2016
  • Was ESPN's man on the ground for the 2013 British & Irish Lions series and Rugby World Cup 2015

Eddie Jones has challenged Maro Itoje to fulfil his potential and become a world-class player after the England second-row was crowned World Rugby's Breakthrough Player of the Year on Sunday.

It was the fourth individual accolade Itoje picked up this year as he continues his meteoric rise as one of the world's most promising players. He has established himself as indispensable for both England and Saracens but Jones has warned Itoje against complacency.

"He's a brilliant young player and this award is a testament to his ability and now it is how hard he works to convert that to be a truly world class player in the future and I am sure he has that attitude to do it," Jones said. "The staff and whole team are so pleased for him to win the award and we are really proud of him."

When Itoje was handed his England debut by Jones, he was compared to a Vauxhall Viva but said he had the potential to reach BMW status. The England coach says he must stay focused if he is to sit in the world-class category.

"There have been a lot of England players who have risen to a height and then not continued," Jones continued. "Joe Launchbury and Courtney [Lawes] were hailed as the new thing and for whatever reason they haven't achieved those heights.

"We want to make sure Maro achieves those heights consistently and I am sure he will. "No doubt about it if he works hard enough. He is dedicated, he chases to be great, he chases to be world class."

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Jones challenges Itoje to fulfil world-class potential