Lancaster backs Yarde to bounce back for England after injury

England head coach Stuart Lancaster Photo: The Sport Review

Stuart Lancaster insists Marland Yarde remains very much a part of his long term plans despite the winger being ruled out of the Six Nations with a hip injury.

The 21-year-old repaid the selectors during the summer tour to Argentina before impressing in England’s victory over Australia during the Autumn internationals.

But a torn hip tendon has left him requiring surgery which is likely to keep him out of action for up to three months, almost certainly ruling him out of England’s 2014 Six Nations campaign.

Despite Yarde’s extended period on the sidelines, Lancaster nevertheless backed him to be pushing for a recall once fit again.

Lancaster said: “Marland has made great progress over the last 12 months and although this is a setback, I am sure he will be back next year and pushing his case for further recognition at international level.”

Meanwhile there was a further setback on the injury front for England with the news fellow wing Ben Foden could also miss the Six Nations.

Foden damaged knee ligaments playing for Northampton Saints against Newcastle Falcons last week and director of rugby Jim Mallinder insisted his recovery would not be rushed.

“I think it will be around the 12-week mark that Ben will be out for,” said Mallinder. “It’s very unfortunate for him.

“Ben is a quick healer so he thinks he can get back before then but you cannot rush these things.”