Gloucester's Atkinson 'pretty close' to England squad despite crowded fly-half battle

Charlie Atkinson is firmly in England’s selection conversation, according to Gloucester head coach George Skivington, who called the 24-year-old fly-half the “story of the season” after a standout final stretch to the Premiership campaign.

Atkinson’s composed performance in Gloucester’s 54-21 victory over Newcastle Red Bulls on the final weekend — in which he kicked seven of eight conversions — helped secure the club’s Investec Champions Cup qualification and earned him the Player of the Season award from both supporters and team-mates.

“Charlie is pretty close to England selection and is on the fringe and in the discussions,” Skivington said. “There are a few good players in that position and a lot of competition, but the year Charlie has had means his stock has risen.”

Atkinson faces a formidable queue ahead of him. Fin Smith, Marcus Smith and the experienced George Ford are all currently ranked above him in England head coach Steve Borthwick’s thinking at No.10. However, Skivington believes Atkinson’s versatility and development give him a genuine case.

The fly-half began the season operating at full-back before being handed the No.10 jersey at Kingsholm, and has grown steadily into the role. Skivington highlighted improvements both on and off the field: “The things he is doing off the field, like commanding the plays, has gone up a notch. He started the season really well at full-back and we gave him his opportunity and he has got better and better.”

Atkinson already has one senior England cap to his name, earned as a replacement for Ford in the 40-5 win over the USA Eagles in Washington during last summer’s tour. That experience, combined with his ability to cover multiple positions, could prove persuasive for Borthwick as he assesses his options.

The fly-half plays with strapping on his right knee — not his kicking leg — a legacy of a serious injury sustained during his time at Wasps. Skivington was relaxed on the matter, saying: “It’s things from the past and he is OK. There is nothing that gets discussed with me and so I am happy.”

With the summer tour approaching, Atkinson’s timing appears deliberate. A season that began with uncertainty over his best position has ended with individual honours and a renewed push for international recognition.