Nick Evans back thanks to self-diagnosis and now he hopes to cure Harlequins' ills

As a qualified physiotherapist, Nick Evans knew he had to leave the field immediately after injuring his groin against Leinster.

The Harlequins fly-half recognised the danger of trying to play on in pain and is reaping the benefits of that decision as he prepares for Saturday’s home game against Leicester.

Evans believes he saved himself from another month of rehabilitation, thanks to his decision in the match on December 7, which has enabled him to return for the crunch Premiership game.

The 34-year-old is confident the groin has recovered sufficiently for him to provide Quins with vital points from the kicking tee against a rejuvenated Leicester. Evans returns at a critical time for Quins, who are looking to climb up the table from eighth place and maintain their lead in Pool Two of the Rugby Champions Cup. Next week, they host Wasps in the European competition and then, seven days later, travel to French side Castres.

Evans said: “I tried to get back for the Northampton game [on December 27] and pushed it a little too hard and missed out on that big match at Twickenham. Now it’s feeling really great and I’ve had a week of kicking, although I’ve modified the volume of practice to ease myself into things.

“A groin injury is very frustrating and being a physio I know all about the problem. You can guard against the injury if you are just running around, but goal kicking involves so many more areas and I couldn’t put the power into a kick. I graduated in 2004 as a physio and I love to keep an eye on what is going on in terms of the latest techniques being used by our medical guys.

“It has helped me understand what is needed to get myself back to full fitness. It also meant I knew right away against Leinster it would only get worse and I didn’t want to end up like Ugo Monye, who needed an operation. I probably saved myself a month or more of rehab by coming straight off.”

Quins have been hit by a series of injuries to key players. Chris Robshaw damaged a shoulder in the win over Leinster but is ready to return against Leicester, as is England team-mate Joe Marler, who was also hurt against the Irish side last month. Flanker Luke Wallace, who broke his hand before Christmas, will take longer to get himself ready for action.

With key men available again, Evans is looking for consistent performances from his side.

“We are getting back to the style of rugby that has caused a lot of teams problems,” he added. “Leicester are always a big challenge and we have had some great games with them — and that’s followed by the big European games with Wasps and Castres.

“We are in a fantastic position in our pool but we all know there is still a lot of rugby to be played and now it’s about kicking on. The guys are working hard and we know it’s about consistency and putting a run of games together instead of win-loss, win-loss.”