England's Lawrence Dallaglio will end a year of frustration when he takes his place on the bench against Italy in Saturday's Six Nations clash in Rome. The former captain has finally overcome a serious knee injury to return for what will be his 48th cap if sprung from the bench by manager Clive Woodward.
"I've said all along that it would be a question of getting back playing rugby and finding out where I was really. It was a bit difficult to gauge after just 20 minutes against Sale, but a little easier after 80 minutes against Leicester, and I am delighted to be back. I've been with the England squad ever since I was injured, so I have not been completely out of touch.
"It hasn't felt as though I have been a million miles away - I have seen how the squad has evolved this season and I've tried to keep in touch, albeit from a distance. I always thought when I came back there would be a little bit of concern that possibly I wouldn't have the same fitness as some of the other players, but you have got to temper that with the fact I'm probably a lot fresher than some of them - so on balance, I think it has come out about even," said Dallaglio.
Filed by Tom Grealis
