Wilkinson set to sign new Newcastle deal

ENGLAND fly-half Jonny Wilkinson is close to signing a new two-year deal with Newcastle.

Wilkinson is embarking on his second comeback since kicking England to World Cup glory in November 2003 after injuries wrecked last season.

The 25-year-old scored 20 points in a match-winning display against Sale at the weekend and should start England’s RBS 6 Nations opener against Wales on February 5, slotting in at inside centre with Charlie Hodgson taking the number 10 shirt.