Manu Tuilagi could return for England in Six Nations, says Eddie Jones
Monday 22 February 2016 16:41, UK
Eddie Jones hopes to have Manu Tuilagi available in time for England's Six Nations match against Wales in March.
Tuilagi, 24, recovered from a hamstring strain to play the full 80 minutes of Leicester's 25-19 defeat to Harlequins in front of Jones on Friday.
The Samoan-born centre, who has not played for England in almost two years, only recently recovered from a long-term groin injury.
Leicester director of rugby Richard Cockerill insists Tuilagi is not yet ready to return to international duty, but Jones believes that England's showdown with Wales in London on March 12 is a realistic target.
"I'll have to have that conversation with the head coach, but that's the planning," said Jones, ahead of Saturday's match against Ireland at Twickenham. "We'd like to look at that. I was pleased to watch him play."
Jones is keen to see Tuilagi play at inside centre for England, rather than his usual club position of 13.
Owen Farrell has filled in at 12 for both of England's opening games in this year's Six Nations but, when fit, Tuilagi is expected to replace the Saracens fly-half in Jones' starting line-up.
"I think inside centre is his best position. He's not a 13. That's what I know he's not. He's definitely a 12. He can carry the ball across the gain line," Jones said.
"He threw a beautiful left to right pass on Friday night. And then he threw a terrible right to left, so maybe he's left handed.
"But he's got the ability to catch and pass. I haven't seen him kick but there's no reason he can't learn to kick.
"We have a reasonable kicking mentor here [in Jonny Wilkinson]. He has got all the attributes to be an outstanding 12."
