Itoje would be happy to see a fit Farrell make England return

Sign up now: Get STs newsletters delivered to your inbox

FILE PHOTO: Rugby Union - British Irish Lions v Argentina - Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland - June 20, 2025 Owen Farrell before the match REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne/File Photo

Maro Itoje said he would welcome Owen Farrell back to the England set-up and that the 112-cap playmaker makes any team better when he is at full fitness.

Farrell stepped back from test rugby to prioritise his mental health following the 2023 World Cup before becoming ineligible for England duty when he moved to Racing 92 in France.

The 33-year-old, who was called up to the British amp; Irish Lions squad as an injury replacement last week, recently agreed a move back to England to play for Saracens next season, allowing him to resume playing for his country.

Yeah, why not? I want to see him be happy, England and Lions captain Itoje told reporters in Canberra on Tuesday.

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

Owen is one of the best England players that weve ever seen. A fit Owen Farrell makes any team better.

Farrell arrived in Australia last Friday and was not considered for selection for the Lions fourth tour match against ACT Brumbies later on Wednesday.

The first test against the Wallabies takes place in Brisbane on July 19. REUTERS