Tom Curry ‘desperate’ to face Japan despite recent concussion – Steve Borthwick

England have defended the decision to recall Tom Curry for Sunday’s clash with Japan even though he was knocked out against Australia a fortnight ago.

Curry will reprise his destructive ‘Kamikaze Kids’ partnership with Sam Underhill for the first time since the 2023 World Cup after being chosen at blindside flanker at the expense of Chandler Cunningham-South.

The selection has been made despite the Sale back row sustaining his second concussion of the season and fifth in two years when his head struck the knee of Australia’s Rob Valentini while making a tackle on November 9, forcing him to miss last Saturday’s defeat by South Africa.

Immanuel Feyi-Waboso also sustained a head injury against the Wallabies but his recovery has not progressed as smoothly so the Exeter wing has been stood down for the Springboks and Japan games.

Head coach Steve Borthwick says that Curry has passed his graduated return to play protocols and is “desperate to be involved” in the Allianz Stadium showdown.

“The welfare health of players is paramount. Tom’s gone through all the protocols, a number of different consultations, and independent specialist consultations. The process has been very thorough,” Borthwick said.

“Every player is always treated on an individual basis. Manny was unavailable for selection because he wasn’t ready.

“I had a conversation with Tom, a player I have so much respect for, about what he wants to do. He’s a player who is desperate to play this weekend. He feels great and he’s raring to go.”

Curry’s return is one of two changes to the side toppled 29-20 by South Africa with George Furbank’s promotion at full-back coming at the expense of Freddie Steward, who was recalled against the Springboks on the strength of his