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Owen Farrell will make a shocking return for England despite being knocked unconscious in front of Saracens just TWO WEEKS ago – with fly-half taking part in tackling drills in training ahead of Argentina clash
- Owen Farrell will be available for the England v Argentina game on Sunday
- Eddie Jones’ men take on the South American side in their Autumn Nations opener
- ‘Faz’ missed last week’s practice after being knocked unconscious on October 22
- Recalled to the squad on Monday, he completed tackling exercises on Wednesday
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Owen Farrell is on track to be available for England’s autumn opener against Argentina at Twickenham on Sunday as he completes his recovery from a head injury.
The 31-year-old playmaker missed Red Rose training camp in Jersey last week after being knocked unconscious during the Saracens victory over Exeter at Sandy Park on October 22.
Unable to fly to the Channel Island, he began going through his return-to-play protocols at his club, while maintaining close contact with his England teammates and coaches.
Owen Farrell (pictured) is available for the England v Argentina game on Sunday
The fly-half, who was recovering from a head injury, took part in tackle drills on Wednesday morning
Farrell was recalled to the squad on Monday and on Wednesday morning he stood on the training ground at the national team’s training base in Surrey, stepping up his return to full fitness.
Crucially, he was involved in tackling drills with Leicester center Guy Porter – both as the carrier and the tackler.
This ability to engage in contact work and fitness activities suggests Farrell is ready to face the Pumas, provided there are no further concussion symptoms.
The news will be a major boost for England head coach Eddie Jones (pictured above)
If he passes his medical tests, the veteran Lion is sure to start in a 10-12 alliance with Marcus Smith and win his 98th England cap.
He would also be in the running to regain the captaincy, in the enforced absence of Courtney Lawes, although Tom Curry and Ellis Genge are other frontline candidates to lead the squad in the first of four games in November.
Eddie Jones would be happy to have Farrell available, knowing he will bring a touch of intensity and aggression that has long been his trademark.
If fit, Farrell will likely line up in the center with playmaker Marcus Smith (right) on the flyout
Mentioning his fall roster, the head coach said, “If we don’t have Owen, we’re going to lose a huge percentage of our fight. He is one of the most dedicated rugby players I have ever seen. We need that.
“Owen is one of the greatest players of all time. He has won every trophy in the world except the Rugby World Cup and he has a silver medal, which is not bad.
“Sometimes I think he doesn’t get the credit he deserves. He’s now breathing new life into his club team – they’re playing fantastic rugby again. We hope we can get that Owen with all that fighting spirit in before November.”