Harry Ellis is running back to England with New Zealand Test series his target

Harry Ellis has taken the first steps towards a comeback for England before the end of the season. The 26-year-old scrum half, the best in his position during last year's Six Nations, has started running for the first time since knee surgery at the end of last season and plans to be back for Leicester by the end of March.

It will put him two months ahead of schedule and give him time to play his way into England's squad for the June Tests in New Zealand.

In 12 Tests without him, England used Andy Gomarsall, Shaun Perry and Peter Richards. Perry is out of the Six Nations after fracturing his windpipe during Bristol's European Cup tie against Harlequins.

His misfortune ought to clear the way for 24-year-old Sale scrum half Richard Wigglesworth's inclusion in the 32 to be named next week for England's Six Nations campaign, starting against Wales at Twickenham on February 2.

Newcastle have revealed their desire to keep Jonny Wilkinson for the rest of his playing days by offering him a four-year contract through to his 33rd birthday.

Because his current contract has only six months to run, Wilkinson can be approached by other clubs.

Leicester, who made more than one bid for him in the past five years, will again head the queue, but even they are resigned to Wilkinson remaining in the north-east.