Manu Tuilagi set to add to Eddie Jones’ options for England’s game against Wales

England are hoping to be reinforced for the next stage of their Guinness Six Nations by the return of several frontline players from injury, including explosive centre Manu Tuilagi.

Eddie Jones’ team revived their title hopes by claiming a bonus-point victory over Italy in Rome that lifted them to second in the table ahead of their showdown with Wales at Twickenham on Saturday week.

Adding to their options in selection could be a number of established internationals who have missed the opening two rounds through injury.

Tuilagi’s comeback from a torn hamstring has gathered pace in Sale’s colours and flanker Courtney Lawes could finally complete his recovery from concussion in time to face Wales.

Joe Launchbury’s vast second row experience would be invaluable now that he has proved his fitness for Wasps following a lengthy spell out because of a knee operation and Lewis Ludlam is due back from the rib cartilage damage incurred against Scotland.

Potentially we'll have Launchbury, Tuilagi, Lawes and Ludlam, so there are a few that could come back into the squad,- Eddie Jones

“Potentially we’ll have Launchbury, Tuilagi, Lawes and Ludlam, so there are a few that could come back into the squad,” head coach Jones said.

“We’d be hopeful that by the end of next week Courtney will be training fully. He’s making some great progress and the medical staff have done some terrific work with him.

“He’s not far away now and we’re really hopeful he’ll be back in full training and able to play against Wales.”

Of the returnees, it will be Tuilagi that adds the most with England missing his muscular presence in a midfield that has lacked punch.

Henry Slade has performed well at inside centre but is not the hard running option that would