Ellis Genge: England prop says he has recovered from hamstring injury 'like Wolverine'

Ellis Genge says he has recovered from a hamstring injury before England's Six Nations opener with healing powers akin to Marvel superhero Wolverine.

England head coach Steve Borthwick is set to name his squad on Wednesday and Genge, 28, says he will be fit to face Italy on 3 February.

The Bristol prop was injured on club duty in December but could return for the derby with Bath on 27 January.

"I'm all good. They said the hammy has healed," said Genge.

"They said miraculous, like Wolverine," he added, referring to the fictional X-Men character who is able to repair damaged tissue quickly.

"They said there is still a little bit of scar tissue that is a little bit immature, so we'll just tick away at that this week. But I should be fit.

"The rehab has been long, daunting. It's tough watching everyone else playing.

"Obviously when your team is not performing well and you're one of the bigger players you want to be involved, but unfortunately I've been sitting on the sidelines pulling my hair out."

Genge's recovery has eased the situation at loosehead prop, where England are without injured duo Joe Marler (arm) and Bevan Rodd (broken toe), while Mako Vunipola has announced his international retirement.

Meanwhile, Beno Obano has impressed for Bath and could be included in Borthwick's 36-player squad.

"Beno has been amazing," said Genge.

"It gives you fire, whether you like it or not. You'd be lying if you said it doesn't push you to get back fit and prove to the world what you can do."