The two appear to be in a three-way battle with Lee Dickson for the No.9 jersey this autumn when England will take on the might of Australia, South Africa and New Zealand.

But since his return from injury at the start of this month Youngs looks to be back approaching his best and the 23-year-old was in sparkling form for Leicester Tigers in their Heineken Cup win over Ospreys last weekend.

And as the competition for spots in Stuart Lancaster’s squad heats up Youngs, who featured in all five of England’s games in this year’s RBS 6 Nations, admits he is delighted to be back in contention.

"I have probably got back sooner than I thought. The only aim for me was about playing,” he said.

"It's great to be back out there. The autumn is around the corner but I have to back it up again next week and keep progressing.

"It's healthy competition and obviously Danny is a good player.

"It's a big year this year and I am working very hard. I am in a great club and a great environment so it's just one week at a time.

"When you're injured it's amazing how much you miss the game, when you are playing it's amazing how many times you wish you had one weekend off!"