Tuilagi’s taking baby steps towards an England recall

DAD-TO-BE Manu Tuilagi can today take the first step towards strong-arming his way back into England’s Six Nations and World Cup plans.

The powerful but injury-plagued ace (left) makes his long-awaited return for Leicester Tigers in their vital European battle with Munster this evening.

Tuilagi, 26, has been knocking on the door for a fresh chance after recovering from a knee injury and is now ready to be unleashed.

The centre, who revealed his girlfriend is pregnant during a pre-Christmas Leicester hospital visit with the rest of the players last week, has until the end of January to prove to England chief Eddie Jones he deserves a recall.

But team-mate Mathew Tait is convinced “perfect specimen” Tuilagi can end his 21-month absence from wearing the white jersey. He said: “Manu isn’t a person who wants sympathy but having been through it myself it’s a real tough thing.

“He’s a professional sportsman and also a young man trying to fulfil his potential and be the best he can as a rugby player.

“He can now see the end of a very long, difficult road. He is just desperate to play and we’re all desperate to have him back on the pitch with us.

“He has been in good spirits and is a huge part of our group. He’s been making plenty of coffees for the boys so far this season!

“In my eyes there’s nobody in world rugby quite like him. As a physical specimen he’s amazing and he’s an incredible player when he’s fit and doing his thing. I’ve certainly never played against anyone like him.

“Touch wood, if all goes to plan and he manages to stay fit, get a run of games under his belt and show his best, I’m sure the England door will be open for the Six Nations.”

Leicester v Munster, Today, 5.30pm, BT Sport 2