England’s number 8 Billy Vunipola is expected to make his return when they take on Japan in their second Rugby World Cup 2023 clash next Monday after serving his 2 match ban from a yellow card he received against Ireland which was later upgraded to red in their RWC warm-up match in Dublin.

After having flanker Tom Curry red-carded against Argentina last week, coach Steve Borthwick is likely to have Vunipola back in his match-day 23 squad.

Last week Vunipola was seen training on his own, away from the rest of the squad, but the defence coach Kevin Sinfield has confirmed the No 8 is fit for selection.

Sinfield says having Vunipola back in camp is a big boost for the team and they are expecting him to lead from the front if he is selected.

England will take on Japan at 7am next Monday in Nice.