Croft won’t rush return

My concern is getting back for Leicester and back playing well

Leicester flank Tom Croft will not push for a place in the England squad for the end-of-year Tests in November.

Croft sustained a neck injury in April and whilst he is making good progress with his rehabilitation, he is still some way away from full fitness.

The 26-year-old said he would not rush his recovery for a quick return to the English side and would focus instead on his club commitments.

"I'm on track of where I'd hope to be at this time," Croft told the Leicester Mercury.

"We are still a little way off but it is just part of being a rugby player. It is frustrating at the moment watching the boys on the pitch, gearing towards a game at the end of each week and I'm stuck at the gym.

"It would be nice to get back fit and actually have something to train for at the end of the week.

"At the moment I am basically avoiding contact as much as possible.

"I missed the summer tour and that was a very frustrating time in my career but there are silver linings you can take.

"It could be a lot worse and it gives me the chance to get my body back in some sort of decent nick and hit the ground running when I come back.

"England is not a concern of mine at the moment, my concern is getting back for Leicester and back playing well."