The pair were both released to play for their club by England ahead of this weekend’s clash with Italy at Twickenham in the penultimate RBS 6 Nations game.

But Mallinder is convinced Lawes and Hartley have done enough to give Lancaster a selection problem against the Azzurri.

“I thought our two returning England lads were particularly impressive,” said the Northampton boss. “Hartley and Lawes put their bodies on the line and were very, very good. Courtney has come back with a real determined attitude.

“He was frustrated from his performance for England against France, he is an honest guy, he doesn’t hide away. But his workrate and physicality was immense.

“I hope Stuart watches the game because then it will give him a few more selection headaches. I am only guessing, but probably in the back of his mind those two would be on the bench for the Italy game.

“But with their performance today the pair of them really put their hands up for selection.”