England tighthead prop has been hailed as one of the best in the world by South Africa and former Leicester coach Heyneke Meyer after some impressive displays during the autumn internationals.
Cole was part of a powerful Red Rose scrum and is expected to be a key member of England’s 2013 RBS 6 Nations campaign alongside Alex Corbisiero.
The English scrum particularly impressed against South Africa, although Meyer’s side managed to come away with a 16-15 win at Twickenham last month.
And having coached the 25-year-old during a short spell with the Tigers back in 2008, Meyer has been impressed with the way he has pushed on.
In particular Meyer picked out Cole’s ability around the park, in addition to his set-piece work, with the England man looking a strong contender for a British & Irish Lions spot alongside Welshman Adam Jones.
Meyer said: “Dan Cole is very close to being the best tighthead in the world and I think he can go on to become that. I really rate him.
“What makes him such a great player is that as well as being a great scrummager, he is one of the best ball stealers I have seen. He really gets around.”
