England hero Jonny Wilkinson is set to make his return from injury in a pre-season friendly later this month.

The fly-half, who successfully converted the drop-kick in the last minute of extra-time which handed England the World Cup against Australia last year, is now fully fit following surgery on his shoulder.

He could make his comeback for the Newcastle Falcons against Irish outfit Connacht on August 17.

The 25-year-old, who was ruled out of England's summer tour to New Zealand and Australia, has not played since last December.

He damaged a nerve between his spine and his shoulder at the World Cup and aggravated the injury playing for Newcastle.

England fans will be delighted to see the return of Wilkinson, as the national team has struggled without him.

England lost to France and Ireland in this year's Six Nations before three crushing defeats Down Under, but will expect better with their inspirational talisman back in the fold.