Fit-again Riki Flutey targets England comeback

Riki Flutey is targeting an England recall after finally putting 18 months of injury hell behind him.

The Wasps centre spent the majority of last season sidelined by a shoulder injury and he missed England's November Tests with a torn calf. Flutey's comeback was then delayed by another fortnight after he contracted a severe dose of the flu, which left him bed-ridden and unable to walk.

However, the 30-year-old helped Wasps climb into fourth place in the Aviva Premiership with a 33-16 victory over Newcastle on Sunday and he confident of pushing for Six Nations selection.

"I have got a bit of game-time coming up. I am looking forward to next week against Harlequins and hopefully put myself in contention for the Six Nations," said Flutey.

"It's been a while with my calf injury. That took longer than expected. But I have had the England physios and doctors coming into Wasps once a week to check on things and all I need to do is get on the field and get some game-time."

Shontayne Hape has taken his opportunity to lay claim to the inside centre position but Flutey is ready to challenge his fellow Kiwi for the 12 jersey.

"I am excited to be a part of that," said Flutey. "There are positive signs there with the England team and I can hopefully push for a place."

Martin Johnson will announce his updated 32-man Six Nations squad on 12 January, ahead of England's opening clash with Wales in Cardiff on February 4.