Asher Opoku-Fordjour Joins England Squad

Asher Opoku-Fordjour, a 20-year-old prop from Sale Sharks, has been called up to the England squad for the Autumn Nations Series, replacing Joe Marler who announced his retirement from international rugby after 95 caps. Marler's retirement follows England's narrow 24-22 defeat to New Zealand, where George Ford missed crucial opportunities to secure a win. Head coach Steve Borthwick has also included Charlie Ewels in the squad, replacing Ted Hill. Opoku-Fordjour, who played a pivotal role in England's U20 World Cup victory this year, is expected to make his senior debut against Australia on November 9. England is looking to bounce back from three consecutive losses to the All Blacks and aims to build momentum heading into the Six Nations and the 2027 World Cup. Players, including lock Maro Itoje, remain optimistic about the team's progress despite recent setbacks.