Wilko back in full training

England's Jonny Wilkinson has been given medical clearance to return to training

England fly-half Jonny Wilkinson has been given medical clearance to return to training with the Newcastle Falcons ahead of the start of the Guinness Premiership season.

Wilkinson was rushed to hospital with an inflamed appendix during Newcastle's pre-season tour of Japan after complaining of stomach pains.

Doctors in Tokyo chose not to operate but warned Wilkinson that if his appendix becomes inflamed again he will require surgery that will keep him sidelined for up to six weeks.

Newcastle director of rugby Rob Andrew has revealed Wilkinson will start full contact training this week and is in contention to play against Sale on Friday.

‚Ç£If his appendix grumbles again, that's obviously a decision for the medics to make,‚Ç¥ Andrew told the club's official website.

‚Ç£But they chose not to operate in Japan and to control it with medication. We'll just see how it goes."