Monday 30 January 2017 17:17, UK
Joe Marler is set to make a surprise return from a leg fracture to start for England in their Six Nations opener against France on Saturday.
The loosehead prop was told he would be sidelined for five weeks after withdrawing from the warm-up of Harlequins' victory over Sale on January 7, ruling him out of the opening two rounds of the Championship.
But having resumed full training in last week's Portugal training camp, he is set to play as Eddie Jones' side begin the defence of their Grand Slam crown at Twickenham.
And forwards coach Steve Borthwick admits Marler is a "fast healer".
Upgrade now to watch all eight Sky Sports channels for only £20 for 12 months
"Joe is looking good and has been taking a full part in training," he said.
"He's done really well, he has been incredibly diligent in terms of doing everything he can to get fit. That's great credit to him."
The news is a boost for England, who are likely to be without first-choice loosehead Mako Vunipola for the entire Six Nations campaign because of a knee problem.
Meanwhile, James Haskell and Jack Clifford have been cleared for the opening match following injuries.
Flanker Haskell has made two brief appearances for Wasps since returning from toe surgery earlier this month. But he is unlikely to start given his lack of match fitness with Tom Wood likely to continue at openside.
Clifford, who offers an alternative to Nathan Hughes at No 8, has also resumed full training after recovering from a chest injury.
