Wasps’ star trio set to make return from injury

ENGLAND World Cup winners Lawrence Dallaglio and Phil Vickery could make their first appearances of the season this weekend.

And Irish international flanker Jonny O’Connor is also on the comeback trail.

Wasps forwards Dallaglio and Vickery are set to feature against EDF Energy Cup opponents London Irish on Sunday.

And the news will encourage England head coach Andy Robinson after seeing preparations for the opening autumn Test appointment with New Zealand on November 5 affected by injuries to several elite squad members.

Dallaglio, 34, had a plate removed from his ankle during the summer as part of ongoing treatment for an injury he suffered during the 2005 Lions tour to New Zealand. Vickery, meanwhile, has endured a lengthy rehabilitation from his latest back operation, but a Wasps debut now awaits after he left Gloucester earlier this year.

Wasps rugby director Ian McGeechan said: “Providing Lawrence and Phil come through training, we anticipate they will both play an active part in the game on Sunday.” Both players face a race against time to be involved against the All Blacks.

Wasps’ Irish international flanker O’Connor is also on the comeback trail, and could be involved this weekend. He has not played since suffering a neck injury last April.