Conor O'Shea hails "special" Joe Marler

Harlequins director of rugby Conor O'Shea has heaped praise upon Joe Marler after the prop scored a vital try and was named man of the match in their 25-23 Premiership semi-final victory over Northampton.

Harlequins were eight points behind with just 14 minutes left before a fightback that culminated with Marler's match-winning try just four minutes from time.

O'Shea was quick to praise the 21-year-old, who was recently named in England's summer tour squad.

"Joe Marler has been a special talent for a long time," said O'Shea.

"He is 21. He will still learn lessons but he learns quickly. In the loose, in his carries and in his tackling he is a very unique talent and England are lucky to have him.

"Our front row, well, what a performance. I wouldn't single Joe out when you have James Johnson on the other side of the scrum and Joe Gray in the middle."

Harlequins will make their first ever appearance in a Premiership final on May 26, when they will face either Leicester Tigers or Saracens.