Haskell relishing Wasps return

If Wasps go well you always have a chance to get your England place back

England loose forward James Haskell is relishing his return to English rugby as he settles back into life at London Wasps.

Haskell returned to his former club this week after spending three seasons overseas - taking in stints at Stade Francais, Ricoh Black Rams and the Highlanders - and says he is excited at the prospect of a return to the black and gold shirt in the weeks ahead.

Haskell spent seven years with Wasps before leaving for France in 2009, coming through the club’s Academy system and making his Premiership debut at just 18.

“I was always a fan of Wasps as a child and I always wanted to come back here. I feel a lot more mature now and am enjoying doing some work with some of the young guys as well and I am excited to just be here and play.”

He is hoping to get his first taste of action in Friday night’s friendly game against Leeds Carnegie at Headingley and says that despite a jam-packed 12 months, he is raring to go.

“I have a few niggles but I always try and look after myself and take my training very seriously. I thought I might be eased back in this week but I have been out straight away and getting stuck in so it’s been good.”

His aims this year are simple, he adds.

“If Wasps go well you always have a chance to get your England place back and that’s what I want to do. This year we have got to just get the group together, shrug off the pressures of last season and the focus is on one game at a time.”