Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter has given a positive update on Henry Slade and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, confirming both are close to returning as the Premiership season gets underway.
Slade, who injured his hand during England’s summer tour against Argentina, had to withdraw from the series but is now nearing full fitness. “It’s pretty close,” Baxter said. “He’s on course to be available for full training next week.”
Feyi-Waboso, who also featured on the tour and played in the win over the USA, is set to rejoin the Chiefs’ match-day squad after requesting dispensation to play. Both players recently secured enhanced EPS contracts, underlining their importance to England’s Test plans this season.
Exeter are also expecting several other backs to return soon, including Olly Woodburn, Will Rigg and Josh Hodge. “We’re in the end stage of rehab for a number of guys,” Baxter explained. “Sladey, Woodburn, Rigg — they’re all getting close to being fully fit and able to play. That should be happening in the next week or so. Hodgey is fairly close too.”
The timely returns will be a boost for the Chiefs, who are already without Tamati Tua for the start of the season and have Tommy Wyatt sidelined with a knee injury from the end of last campaign.
