Ellis Genge has made a “miraculous” recovery from his hamstring problem and expects to be fit to start the Six Nations.
Bristol prop Genge has been sidelined since early December with a hamstring setback and had been a major doubt to be fit for England’s Six Nations opener.
The 28-year-old hopes to prove his fitness by returning to action in Bristol’s Premiership clash with Bath on January 27.
England will start their Six Nations campaign by facing Italy in Rome on February 3.
Genge’s availability would offer head coach Steve Borthwick a major boost, especially with Harlequins prop Joe Marler still struggling to beat a biceps problem.
England will name their Six Nations squad on Wednesday morning, with Genge now set to be included.
Saracens hooker Jamie George remains in line to be named captain as widely anticipated, taking the armband from Owen Farrell, who has taken a Test match break.
Genge will remain as one of England’s most trusted lieutenants though, and his expected Six Nations fitness could prove crucial for England.
“They said the hammy has healed, they said ‘miraculous’, like Wolverine,” said Genge.
“They said there is still a little bit of scar tissue that is a little bit immature, so we’ll just tick away at that this week. But I should be fit.
“I don’t know about Connacht (on Friday night) but I’ll be ready for Bath.”
Genge revealed his relief at recovering just in time to put his hand back up for England selection.
Bath’s Beno Obano and Harlequins’ Fin Baxter have shown up strongly in recent weeks, with both men pushing hard for England squad selection.
“The rehab has been long, daunting,” said Genge, speaking at the premiere of the upcoming Netflix show, Six Nations: Full Contact.
“It’s tough watching everyone else playing. Obviously when your team is not performing well and you’re one of the bigger players you want to be involved, but unfortunately I’ve been sitting on the sidelines pulling my hair out.
“Beno has been amazing hasn’t he, for Bath. It gives you fire, whether you like it or not. You’d be lying if you said it doesn’t push you to get back fit and prove to the world what you can do.”
