England’s midfield looks set to be bolstered by the addition of first-choice inside centre Riki Flutey after he was passed fit for Sunday’s Six Nations game against Italy in Rome.
Rugby league convert Shontayne Hape - another New Zealand-born centre who missed the win over Wales at Twickenham because of injury - was also included in training yesterday ahead of today’s team announcement.
Flutey was struck down with a thigh injury in training late last week, ruling him out of the 30-17 victory at the weekend.
Hape was not included in the matchday 22, with Toby Flood stepping in as a makeshift number 12 and Mathew Tait making his first England start, at outside centre, since the 2007 World Cup final.
However, both men are expected to be named for the match in Rome, which England fans hope will build on an improved performance against Wales in their opening game.
Wed, Feb 10, 2010
Business, General Sport, Rugby Union