England defence coach Paul Gustard says Maro Itoje could be given the chance to show his prodigious talent in Sunday's Six Nations clash with Italy.

Itoje and Josh Beaumont have been included in a 25-strong England squad for the trip to Rome.

England head coach Eddie Jones is set to name his starting XV on Friday morning and has hinted that there will be changes to his pack due to the conditions expected at the Stadio Olimpico.

Itoje has been in outstanding form for Saracens this season and could be in line for a first cap in round two of the championship at the expense of either Joe Launchbury, Courtney Lawes or George Kruis.

Gustard, who worked with Itoje at Saracens, likened the 21-year-old to former England captain Steve Borthwick, who is now forwards coach in Jones' new-look England.

"He's had a stellar season, he's been magnificent for Saracens," Gustard said. "He's matured a lot. He's taken a lot more responsibility in terms of his lineout skills and his leadership.

"He's very diligent as a professional, almost very Borthwick-like."

Gustard reckons the England hierarchy have already demonstrated their confidence in Itoje by naming him in the elite player squad.

"Now we have to back that up at some stage and give him an opportunity to translate his club form into the Test arena," added Gustard, who recalled the size of Itoje was what caught his attention initially.

"He's massive," added Gustard, a former Saracens back-row. "We had him against the wall. You're meant to be the height you are in your wingspan. He was much longer.

"He's got a huge range, which is probably one of the reasons he's so effective through lineouts."