Willis could make unlikely return for England against France

LONDON (AP) — Jack Willis could make an unlikely comeback for England in the Six Nations match against Grand Slam-chasing France in Paris on Saturday.

Willis has been picked in the squad for the first time since suffering a serious knee injury when illegally rolled out of a ruck by Italy’s Sebastian Negri in last year’s championship.

The 25-year-old breakdown specialist tore the medial collateral ligament off the bone in two places, and also sustained extensive meniscus damage. He only made his comeback for his club, Wasps, last month.

With Tom Curry ruled out against France because of a hamstring problem sustained in the 32-15 loss to Ireland on Saturday that ended England’s title prospects, Willis has been told by coach Eddie Jones that he could be involved at the Stade de France.

The more likely option is that Sam Underhill is restored to the back row for his first appearance of the Six Nations, but Jones is not ruling out bringing in Willis.

“Jack is obviously an option but I’d need to see him train tomorrow (Tuesday),” Jones said. “If he trains well tomorrow then he could be an option.

“He’s shown a lot of resilience and a lot of determination. I was really pleased watching him play against Northampton yesterday. We know he’s a player of great promise and he’s still only 25 years of age. To come back from such a difficult injury is a great testament to his resilience. I’m sure he’s going to add value to the squad.”

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