Second row Maro Itoje has rejoined the England set-up, named in a 36-man training squad for this autumn's Nations Championship matches. The 31-year-old missed July's matches against South Africa, Fiji and Argentina, having taken his first significant summer break from rugby in over a decade.
Itoje, who previously led England through a Six Nations campaign with only one win, has reportedly felt the benefits of his time away. Steve Borthwick's players are scheduled to meet on Sunday, marking their first gathering since the summer tour.
Saracens' Itoje is expected to reclaim the captaincy from Jamie George when England faces Australia on 8 November. Subsequent matches include Japan on 14 November and New Zealand on 21 November. Courtney Lawes and Joe Marchant, now available after returning from France, have not been included in the squad. Jamie George and Ollie Chessum, despite groin and foot injuries respectively, will join the squad.