The 6ft 6in back row was instead forced to watch England’s summer tests on TV but Young believes the manner of Launchbury’s break-through season - which saw him springboard on from winning the 2011 RBS 6 Nations Grand Slam with the Under-20s to a senior call-up - can be backed up this year.

At club level Wasps turned to Launchbury after injuries hit their squad, giving the versatile forward an opportunity to showcase both his skills and the harder edge to his game.

Young believes this combination will have Launchbury knocking on the door for selection to head coach Stuart Lancaster’s squad, both this season and for many years to come.

 “He’s pretty special - in my opinion he’s someone who’s going to be around in the England camp for a long time,” said Young.

“Because he’s young people don’t realise how tough he is, but he’s an awesome rugby player with it as well. 

“There were times last year with injury that he probably shouldn’t have been out there but he just got out there and did the job – he’s a good team man.

“At this moment in time he’s in the Saxons group but I’m sure he’s going to be pushing right from the start of the season and he’s only going to improve this year with better company.”