Fitness boost for Dickson

Northampton scrum-half could face Italy despite hand injury

Last Updated: February 6, 2012 1:42pm

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Lee Dickson: Could yet feature against Italy despite breaking a bone in his hand against Scotland

Sky Bet

England scrum-half Lee Dickson could yet feature in Saturday's RBS Six Nations clash with Italy.

Northampton number nine Dickson broke a bone in his left hand during the 13-6 victory over Scotland on Saturday - his debut in an England shirt.

As a result, the 26-year-old was expected to miss this weekend's trip to Rome, but his recovery has been rapid.

Dickson had further tests on the injury on Sunday and, following an optimistic prognosis, could now take part at the Stadio Olimpico as Stuart Lancaster's men look to maintain their perfect start.

"Lee saw a specialist last night and we're very optimistic of his chances of being available this weekend," said interim head coach Lancaster.

Dwindling options

England's scrum-half options have dwindled with Richard Wigglesworth injured

and Danny Care serving a suspension following his arrest for drink driving.

"Lee saw a specialist last night and we're very optimistic of his chances of being available this weekend."
Stuart Lancaster Quotes of the week

Dickson's elder brother Karl, Care's understudy at Harlequins who made his first club start since mid-November on Sunday, was called up as cover after his sibling's injury.

"Having had a disappointing afternoon with Lee and sent him away feeling sorry for himself, the news later on in the evening was very positive," added

Lancaster.

"We'll review him today and see if he's fit to train tomorrow. We hope he will be. The specialist is confident that he should be available for the weekend."

Waiting on Wilson

Lancaster revealed that prop David Wilson sustained a suspected broken jaw in Bath's 31-3 victory against Exeter over the weekend and undergoes an x-ray on Monday.

"We're waiting for the results on that before we call in a replacement. We already have four props for training for the next 48 hours," explained Lancaster.

England will train at an indoor football academy by the O2 Arena on Tuesday if

the pitch at their Pennyhill Park base fails to defrost.

Meanwhile, the Rugby Football Union have an announced a four-year extension of their partnership with O2.

The agreement continues O2's presence on senior England, Saxons and women's team kit.