Stuart Lancaster
Lancaster faces a selection headache this weekend. REUTERS

Youngster Ben Morgan is already impressing on the big stage, according to Stuart Lancaster, with the flanker showing the way for a new-look England side in the Six Nations tournament.

Morgan came off the bench for Phil Dowson in the 68<sup>th minute, and guided England to a convincing 13-6 victory over hosts Scotland in their first game of the competition.

And Lancaster believes that 22 year old Morgan will give the coach a tough time when he makes his selections for this weekend's match up with Italy.

"Part of the selection discussion over the two weeks has been about the back row," he said.

"I was pleased with its balance on Saturday and I thought Tom Croft, Chris Robshaw and Phil all contributed in different areas.

"We were pleased with Ben Morgan's impact from the bench. He has taken a huge step to go from no representative rugby straight into the England side.

"For him to come here and be involved as he has been, he is clearly finding his feet quickly. We are pleased with the impact he made but we also bear in mind the steps he has taken."

He added: "It is part of the selection dynamic for this weekend."

England will be overwhelming favourites to defeat Italy this weekend, and while the side will be desperate to push France for top spot in the table, star lock Tom Palmer won't be underestimating the power of Italy captain and Stade Francais teammate Sergio Parisse.

"Sergio Parisse is a high-quality player," he said.

"He's a very good athlete, very powerful and combines that with being very skilful. He has a high work-rate, so he has everything you need to be a top player.

"It seems as though he raises his game every time he plays for Italy. He often plays well for Stade, but not quite as consistently well as he does for Italy.

"He's the captain, it's a big responsibility for him and he rises to the challenge. He delivers every time he plays for them."

England will leave for Rome with their 22 selected squad members on Thursday.