England international Manny Feyi-Waboso has received clearance to play for Exeter Chiefs in this weekend's Premiership final at Twickenham. The decision comes less than two weeks after the 23-year-old winger underwent facial surgery, a significant development for the Chiefs as they prepare to face Northampton.
Rob Baxter, Exeter's Director of Rugby, confirmed that Feyi-Waboso himself made the ultimate decision to play, following approval from England's medical team. A plate was inserted into his jaw earlier this month, but medical assessments have indicated a positive recovery. Baxter noted that there is no remaining damage requiring protection, and Feyi-Waboso has been participating in non-contact training, including running drills, suggesting full readiness for the high-stakes match.
Due to his enhanced England contract, the national team's management also had to consent to his return. Baxter clarified that while three parties – the club, England Rugby, and the player – needed to align, the player's wishes were paramount once all medical information was provided. He stressed that England had been fully supportive of Feyi-Waboso's decision, with the surgeon and medical professionals confirming his fitness to return to competitive play.
Exeter's squad receives further boosts with the return of England back-row Ethan Roots, who missed the semi-final win against Bath due to head injury protocols. Wing Campbell Ridl has also been declared fit after recovering from a bruised knee sustained in the same match. These returns strengthen the Chiefs' lineup as they aim for their first Premiership title since 2020.
Despite finishing ninth last season, Exeter has defied expectations to reach the final. Baxter has emphasised the importance of seizing this opportunity. He highlighted that while reaching the final is a challenging feat, the true reward comes from winning it, transforming the semi-final victory into a step towards Premiership glory. Exeter last featured in the final in 2021, narrowly losing to Harlequins, and will be looking to overcome the bookmakers' favourites, Northampton, through a comprehensive performance both with and without the ball.