Jones keen on Tuilagi return

The powerful centre enjoyed a successful comeback from a hamstring strain in Leicester's defeat by Harlequins last Friday, when England coach Jones was watching from the stands.

Tuilagi ended 15 months out with a groin problem last month, but he was then sidelined by his latest injury setback, putting him on doubt for the Six Nations..

Leicester Director of Rugby Richard Cockerill has insisted England's most effective ball carrier is not ready to end his 20-month absence from the Test arena, but Jones believes otherwise.

When asked if the showdown with Wales was feasible for his international return, Jones replied: "Definitely.

"I'll have to have that conversation with the head coach, but that's the planning. We'd like to look at that. I was pleased to watch him play."

England, who have won their first two games against Italy and Scotland take on Ireland at Twickenham this coming Saturday

Agence France-Presse