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Gloucester teammate Rob Cook has backed speedster Jonny May to force his way into Eddie Jones plans
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The 26-year-old winger was ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury in January
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May has won 30 caps for the men in white since debuting in 2013, scoring six tries
Gloucester winger Jonny May is moving closer towards a return to action and is being backed by former clubmate Rob Cook to get back onto the England scene in no time.
The winger missed the rest of the season after undergoing knee surgery in January but is moving closer to his return following intense rehab.
Wingers Anthony Watson, Jack Nowell and Marland Yarde all impressed during England’s historic 3-0 series victory down under against the Wallabies, but former Cherry and Whites teammmate Cook is backing May to force himself back into the reckoning.
“I’ve been in with Jonny this off season having treatment and the dedication he’s showing towards his rehab is phenomenal,” revealed Cook.
“He’s seeing England’s performances in Australia and feels he’s missing out, but he’s desperate to get back and he’s working so hard to achieve that aim.
“It will be a hell of a fight for him to get back in, but he’s got the X-factor that maybe others haven’t and if he stays fit I’ve no doubt he’ll get another shot.
“He’s hoping to be back for the start of the season and if he can steer clear of injury, he will definitely put pressure on (Jack) Nowell, (Marland) Yarde and (Anthony) Watson.”
Cook is now the newly appointed Deputy-Director of sport at King Edward VI grammar school Stratford-Upon-Avon. The scurm-half however does not intend hanging up his boots and is mulling over an offer to become a player-coach at National Three level.
He added: “I still aim to play, although it will not be at a high level.
“Nothing’s confirmed yet, but player-coaching is something I’ll enjoy and I’ve been talking to a couple of clubs locally with a view to helping them out next season.”