Six Nations 2024: England hope Ellis Genge returns against Wales, says Richard Wigglesworth

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 had a late withdrawal from England's opening Six Nations win over Italy last weekend.

The prop was originally named in the matchday squad, but was forced out with a foot injury.

“Ellis trained on [Tuesday] “In parts and he has to get through on Thursday,” Wigglesworth told BBC Sport.

Genji had suffered a hamstring injury prior to the tournament, which he claimed to be recovering from “like a Wolverine”.

Wigglesworth also confirmed that Marcus Smith's calf injury will set him back “back in the tournament” after the fly-half missed the opener in Rome and was left out of the squad preparing to face Wales.

However, midfielder Ollie Lawrence could “potentially” come into camp this weekend, but will not feature against Wales.

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

International referee Luke Pearce was in the England camp this week to discuss the current 'trends' that officials are looking at at the moment.

South Africa confirmed on Tuesday that recently retired international referee Jaco Bieber will join its coaching team as a national laws advisor.

“We're lucky that we get to work with the referees a lot, and that's definitely something Steve does [Borthwick] “I brought it to the programme,” Wigglesworth told the Rugby Union Daily podcast.

“Discipline has been very important for Steve because we need to know what to do better, so we have referees in camp a lot.

“Not to be there to judge but to review decisions.”