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Rugby

08th Jan 2017

WATCH: Real concern for England as James Haskell’s rhino tackle sees him off with nasty head injury

Return from 7 month injury layoff lasts just 35 seconds

Sean McMahon

Out cold.

Eddie Jones was an interested spectator at the Ricoh Arena as England flanker, James Haskell, made his return after being out injured for seven months.

Haskell has been sidelined with a troublesome toe injury which he picked up in England’s second test against Australia during their summer tour down under.

Jones and England fans would have been delighted to see the bruising back-row make his competitive comeback as he looks to regain match fitness as England aim to defend their Six Nations crown in a couple of weeks time.

Unfortunately for England and Haskell, the 31-year-old’s return only lasted 35 seconds as he was removed from the field of play after suffering a nasty looking head injury as he attempted to tackle Leicester Tigers player Freddie Burns.

It wasn’t the best of tackle techniques from Haskell, who led with his head before wrapping his arms around Burns.

Perhaps it was the lack of competitive rugby action and eagerness to make a hit which resulted in this incident taking place.

A worried Jones looked on.

After receiving some on-field treatment, Haskell was soon back on his feet where he left the field permanently with a suspected concussion.

Jones will hope that injury isn’t too serious as he looks to bolster his back-row options ahead of their Six Nations opener against France.

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