But the man who ended the summer as England’s first-choice No.10 will run out at Welford Road to take on Welsh opposition, and director of rugby Cockerill couldn’t be happier.

“Toby is world class and it is a huge boost having him back," said Cockerill. "He is right up there with the likes of Dan Carter, Matt Giteau and Quade Cooper.

“Who is better than those? Not many. Flood is a very good player, he trained on Monday and Tuesday and having him back gives everyone a lift.

“He was close to playing last week but we didn't want to risk him for obvious reasons.

“He is massive for us and so are the likes of Allen, Ayerza, Woods and Manu Tuilagi.

“That strength in depth is key. It gives the whole squad confidence with them coming back because the difference between good and world-class players is the speed of thought and how quickly they pick things up.

“Put three or four of those guys back in the side and it makes everyone's life a lot easier.

“We have had Toby for only 30 minutes so far this season.

“And last weekend in Italy, we were missing our two first-choice fly-halves and both our first-choice inside and outside centres. That hurt us like it would hurt any team in Europe.”

Elsewhere, Saracens received a welcome boost ahead of their clash with Leinster after tying up the contracts of young England trio Alex Goode, Andy Saull and Brad Barritt.

London Irish will look to build on their impressive opening round victory against Munster when they take on the Ospreys on Friday.

The Exiles however will have to make do without England Internationals Delon and Steffon Armitage for their trip to Liberty Stadium.

Meanwhile, Bath travel to Italy to take on Aironi, Northampton face Edinburgh and Wasps welcome Glasgow to Adams Park.