France vs England team news: Joe Marler could miss out after being cited for striking in Wales clash

Joe Marler is in danger of missing the France match after he was cited this morning for allegedly striking Wales prop Rob Evans.

Marler’s arm caught Evans in the face and if, found guilty at a hearing this week, the Harlequins prop faces a minimum of two weeks out.

He might be in further trouble as he could yet be cited for calling Wales prop Samson Lee a “gypsy boy”.

The comment was picked up by referee Craig Joubert’s microphone and has found its way onto social media. Marler (above with Lee) apologised at half-time to the prop, who has previously spoken of his gypsy heritage.

The citing process is open until 6pm tonight and a Six Nations spokesman said: “It is certainly a matter we take very seriously. We will need to fully review the match and speak to all the relevant parties.”

England coach Jones is understood to have spoken to Marler about the incident.

The RFU is awaiting the Six Nations verdict and an RFU spokesman said: “Any issue arising from the match falls under the Six Nations jurisdiction, we would not do anything that could prejudice any investigation that they may choose to undertake.”

If Marler is suspended his place in the team to face France would be taken by Mako Vunipola with Matt Mullan, of Wasps, likely to join the replacements.