England's star forward Billy Vunipola has declared himself ready for action after an unexpectedly early comeback from injury in what is a massive boost for the defending Six Nations champions.
Vunipola has recovered from the knee ligament damage sustained in November three weeks ahead of schedule and has been drafted straight into Saracens' starting XV for their Premiership clash with Newcastle.
If the No.8 proves his fitness at Kingston Park on Sunday, he will come into contention for Scotland's visit to Twickenham on March 11 and the potential title decider against Ireland in Dublin a week later.
"I'm really excited to be back out there this weekend. I'm feeling refreshed, the body feels great and I'm ready for what will be a really tough game up in Newcastle," Vunipola said.
"I'd like to thank the whole medical team, especially our physio Laura Tulloch and our head of performance Phil Morrow, for their support throughout my time out."
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England have sorely missed their most potent ball carrier since he damaged his knee against Argentina, turning to the less experienced Nathan Hughes in his absence.
Billy's elder brother Mako is also present in the Saracens' pack after being released back to his club in order to gain match fitness.
