Tom Roebuck's name is back on the England radar, and it's music to the ears of fans everywhere! The talented Sale Sharks wing has been recalled to the squad for the upcoming Nations Championship showdowns against Fiji and Argentina. Meanwhile, George Furbank's injury woes continue, with an appendectomy in Johannesburg ruling him out of action yet again.
The 25-year-old Furbank's latest setback is a cruel blow, adding to his list of misfortunes that have prevented him from building on his impressive 14 caps. A combination of calf and concussion issues, as well as a fractured arm, has left him sidelined since November 2024 – he's expected to return to the UK on Tuesday to continue his recovery.
Roebuck's re-entry into the fold is a welcome boost for Steve Borthwick's squad, which needs all the momentum it can get after that heavy defeat in South Africa. The youngster had shown plenty of promise during the autumn internationals and the Six Nations before suffering a broken toe – now he's back and raring to go!
There's better news on the injury front elsewhere: Freddie Steward is set to return against Fiji, having missed out on the South Africa match with a rolled ankle. But Cadan Murley remains a doubt, with his shoulder injury under investigation – we'll have to wait until Thursday for Steve Borthwick's team announcement.
Alex Mitchell, another Sale Sharks product, has overcome hamstring issues and is now in contention to start against the Islanders. For him, it's a chance to make an impression at Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool – the city boy can't wait: "Going to Liverpool will be pretty special – a new stadium and new fans are always exciting! To get some new fans on board would be fantastic."