MAX Crumpton could be in line to make his Harlequins debut when the Premiership giants take on Clermont Auvergne in the Heineken Cup this weekend.

The former King John School pupil, from Hadleigh, was on the bench for Quins’ 23-9 defeat at Northampton Saints last Friday.

And the 20-year-old hooker, who was snapped up by Harlequins just before Christmas, now hopes to be let loose against the Clermont.

“I was on the bench to learn more about the system and structure of play and hopefully I’ll get a chance in the Heineken Cup now,” said Crumpton.

“To get the chance to play in a game like that would be a great opportunity and one that certainly excites me.”

Crumpton is no stranger to big matches having previously represented England at under-16, 18 and 20 age groups.

But his switch to Quins still came as a huge surprise.

The youngster had been on loan with Championship club Plymouth Albion from his parent club Saracens when he heard of Harlequins’ interest.

And he could not wait to make the move.

“The coach at Plymouth pulled me to one side to tell me of Harlequins’ interest and I couldn’t believe it,” said Crumpton.

“It was fantastic to know that my performances had been picked up on and that people were talking about me.

“I’ve settled in really, the lads are all brilliant and this is a massive chance for me now.”

Crumpton is now rubbing shoulders with England captain Chris Robshaw plus fellow internationals Mike Brown, Danny Care and Nick Easter.

However, he is not sure where his long-term future lies.

“I’m in the last year of my contract at Saracens and I don’t know what is going to happen,” said Crumpton.

“But all I’m focusing on at the moment is playing well for Harlequins and doing the best I can here in the games we have coming up.”