Hobson fought back from that double blow only to snap his Achilles again last January, which ensured his first season at Adams Park was spent on the sidelines.

But Hobson, who played for England on the tour to New Zealand in 2008, is now back in action, making his debut from the bench in the Heineken Cup defeat to Toulouse, and ready to repay the faith of the Wasps coaching staff and supporters.

“The last couple of years have been absolutely horrendous so I can’t wait to show everyone what I can do in a Wasps shirt,” said Hobson.

“I was brought here to do a job and I’m finally able to do that again – not steal a living anymore.

“It’s been a long road back but I’m lucky that I’m at such a good club with the best conditioners and coaches in the business.

“That’s why I believe I will come back a better player than I was. Terry Evans (strength and conditioning coach) has been a great support to me and I’m sure he will glad to get rid of me.

“He’s got me in great shape, fitter than ever and you only have to look at how the likes of Phil Vickery have come back from serious injuries here.

“There’s a World Cup in 12 months time so why shouldn’t I aim for it – I know it’s a long way-off but I’ve got to be ambitious and I would love to play for England again.”