Scotland v England: Joe Marler back in England training after Covid-19

Joe Marler also tested positive for coronavirus in November

England's Six Nations injury problems have eased slightly after Joe Marler returned to training following Covid-19 isolation.

The prop tested positive on 25 January but will now be available for Saturday's opener against Scotland.

Back Joe Marchant, who is still isolating after a positive test on Friday, remains a doubt for Saturday.

Flanker Courtney Lawes, favourite to be captain after Owen Farrell's injury, is yet to return from concussion.

Lawes sustained the head injury playing for Northampton on 16 January and has not yet passed return to play protocols.

England forwards coach Matt Proudfoot told BBC Sport he is "very confident Courtney will be ready", but added "we've been cautious" because of previous concussions Lawes has suffered.

Proudfoot said hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie, prop Ellis Genge and back row Tom Curry had all been offering leadership support to Lawes.

The South African added that Marler is "ready to go" and "had a really good scrummaging session" on his return to Tuesday's training.

England are without Farrell, Jonny May and Anthony Watson for the entire tournament, while lock Jonny Hill may not be available to play at Murrayfield because of a foot injury.

Centre Manu Tuilagi and flanker Sam Underhill are likely to be available later in the Six Nations once they have recovered from respective hamstring and concussion issues.

England's team to face Scotland is expected to be announced at 11:30 GMT on Thursday.

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