Lions skipper backs the return of Farrell

MARO Itoje believes a fit Owen Farrell could still have a role to play for England after welcoming his former captain’s arrival on the British and Irish Lions’ tour of Australia.

- By DUNCAN BECH

Farrell has been called up to his fourth expedition with the Lions as a replacement for the injured Elliot Daily and there is a possibility he will be involved in the series against the Wallabies as fly-half and inside centre cover.

Any appearance would be his first Test since the 2023 World Cup, after which he stepped back from international rugby to prioritise his and his family’s mental wellbeing before then joining Racing 92, making him ineligible for England selection.

But by agreeing a return to Saracens for next season he is available once more - and Itoje would endorse his comeback for the national side.

“Yeah, why not? I want to see him be happy,” said Itoje, who has played under Farrell with both Saracens and England.

“If he wants to play for England, why not? That would be amazing if that’s in his plans and in his dreams.