Six Nations 2024: England 'hopeful' Ellis Genge will return against Wales, says Richard Wigglesworth

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Ellis Genge hasn't played since the beginning of December

Guinness Six Nations: England vs Wales
Venue: Twickenham Stadium Date: Saturday 10th February Kick-off: 16:45 GMT
Coverage: Listen on ` Radio 5 Live, live text on the ` Sport website and app, watch on ITV1

England are “hopeful” that vice-captain Ellis Genge will be fit to face Wales on Saturday, says attack coach Richard Wigglesworth.

The 28-year-old was a late breakaway in England's opening Six Nations win over Italy last weekend.

The prop was originally in the matchday squad, but had to withdraw due to a foot injury.

“Ellis continued to train [Tuesday] in parts and he has to get through Thursday,” Wigglesworth told ` Sport.

Genge had suffered a hamstring injury before the tournament, from which he was said to have recovered “like Wolverine”.

Wigglesworth also confirmed that Marcus Smith's calf injury will set him back “further in the tournament” after the half-time player missed the opener in Rome and was left out of the squad for the game against Wales.

However, center Ollie Lawrence could “potentially” come into camp later this week but will not feature against Wales.

Second row George Martin is receiving treatment for a knee injury and could also return against Scotland on February 24.

“Discipline was incredibly important”

International referee Luke Pearce was in the England camp this week to discuss current “trends” that officials are currently looking out for.

South Africa confirmed on Tuesday that recently retired international referee Jaco Peyper will join its coaching team as national legal adviser.

“We’re lucky that we have a lot of referees and that’s definitely something Steve has done [Borthwick] contributed to the program,” Wigglesworth told the Rugby Union Daily podcast.

“Discipline was incredibly important for Steve as we need to know what we can do better, which is why we have a lot of referees in camp.”

“Not to be there as a referee, but to review decisions.”