England winger Jason Robinson could return to action in the Six Nations clash with France after being told he will not require surgery on his injured neck.

Medical experts have advised Robinson, who missed the record defeat in Dublin last Saturday with the problem, to rest his neck for a few days and let the pain subside. And with the Twickenham game not scheduled until March 11, Robinson may find himself restored to Brian Ashton's team.

"The problem should not need any corrective surgery and with the correct rest and rehab, Jason should be back playing very soon," said Sale club doctor Dave Jones.

Robinson's club and international colleague, Magnus Lund, is also expected to shake off injury in time to play the unbeaten French, after coming off with concussion during the 43-13 hammering by Ireland.

"I picked up a couple of bangs to the head at Croke Park and am feeling much better," he explained. Jones added: "Magnus will not play again until he has taken and passed the necessary tests. It is very doubtful he will play this weekend but we are hopeful he will be fit next week."