Dombrandt out to play name game

ALEX DOMBRANDT returns from injury today with his eyes on an England jersey bearing his name.

The Rugby Football Union have said, starting next Sunday against Argentina, Eddie Jones’ side will wear personalised shirts.

RFU CEO Bill Sweeney said: “Player names on shirts may have the potential to bring fans closer to the stars of our game.”

Dombrandt, below, missed the tour to Australia with knee damage then pulled up lame in Harlequins’ opening game of the season.

His summer absence allowed Billy Vunipola to reclaim the England No.8 jersey.

Today Dombrandt begins the search for form and fitness when he racks up a century of Quins appearances in the Premiership clash against London Irish.

He said: “I need to get back playing, rediscover the form of last season and get better.

“I love to attack and have the ball in my hand. I need to keep adding to that area of my game.”

On his last appearance at the Stoop, Dombrandt, 25, eclipsed Vunipola before his hamstring went. Saracens won with Vunipola man of the match.

Dombrandt said: “It’s been a hugely frustrating start to the season. I’m not a great watcher, I get frustrated.

“So I’m excited to get back and reaching 100 appearances is a proud moment. It seems only yesterday I was a fan watching Joe Marler, Danny Care and Chris Robshaw.

“It is a dream come true. I never thought I’d make my debut let alone reach this point.”

England head coach Jones challenged his forwards to become 40 percent fitter by the World Cup.

Prop Mako Vunipola said: “Eddie had us running to and from the 22 four times, up and down on each line, and we did six lots of reps.

Missing from the training camp were Courtney Lawes and Owen Farrell amid fears over their fitness. ❏Wasps have been suspended from the top flight and had their relegation confirmed.