Harlequins scrum-half Danny Care’s flying start to the new Guinness Premiership season puts him top of the England number nine charts, according to club skipper Will Skinner.

The 21-year-old - fresh from making his international debut on the ill-fated tour of New Zealand in the summer - was the creative spark behind Saturday’s 31-13 mauling of Bristol at the Stoop.

Livewire Care scored one try and created two others as Quins claimed a bonus point triumph to send director of rugby Dean Richards’ side top of the table after the second round of matches.

It added to the two breaks he made to set-up tries against Sarcens seven days earlier and has helped give Skinner a perfect start to his stint as captain having formally taken over the reigns from Paul Volley.

And the Saxons star - who missed out on selection for Martin Johnson’s first 64-man Elite Player Squad in July - reckons Care is in pole position to claim a starting England berth for the forthcoming autumn internationals.

“Everyone is putting great individual performances in at the moment and Danny was superb again at the weekend,” he said.

“He has shown his quality early on this season and is following on brilliantly from the form that got him that England call-up in the first place.

“He has been frustrated when he hasn’t been involved over the past couple of season, but he has been patient and learnt a huge amount behind Andy Gomarsall.

“Danny wants to be involved in the autumn internationals and his play is an indication of that. He is staking his claim for that starting slot and I would have thought he is ahead of the rest at the moment.”

Quins travel to Gloucester, who claimed a first ever league win at Bath’s Recreation Ground on Saturday, this weekend and will face a stiff test of their title credentials.

Skinner reckons they can take a lot from the way they performed at Kingsholm last season, as well as the thrilling triumph at the Stoop in March.

“I relish the intimidating atmosphere at Gloucester. I love it. Having spoken to a few of the guys they feel the same way,” he added.

“We came close to winning there last year and the win at the Stoop proves we have it in us to beat them. We have looked at them very closely and no stone has been left unturned.”