Mako Vunipola to return for Saracens against Gloucester

England international Mako Vunipola is set to return to action on Friday for his club Saracens during the Aviva Premiership encounter against Gloucester.

The 6 ft prop sustained a knee injury and has missed nine weeks of action which includes European Champions Cup and Aviva Premiership games for Saracens and the opening two matches of Six Nations for England.

Vunipola can make a comeback into the England team as early as 26th February when they lock horns with Italy at Twickenham provided he proves his fitness in his outing for Saracens this week.

Saracens rugby director Mark McCall is expected to make a number of changes for the clash against Gloucester after his team suffered a shocking 24-18 defeat to Worcester Warriors at Sixways last weekend.

Gloucester themselves will be heading into the game after they suffered a 34-9 defeat against Leicester Tigers and rugby director David Humphreys said the result left them fuming.

The 45-year-old is hoping to use the home advantage to the maximum when they host the defending champions on Friday.

"We were disappointed, frustrated and angry that, probably for the first time this season, we turned up at a game and just didn't perform," he said.

"We didn't really fire a shot and that was the most disappointing thing.

"Our focus has been very much on making sure that the issues we had last week aren't there this week, because we know that Saracens will pose a very similar challenge to the one we faced last week with Leicester.

"Strong set-piece, physical pack - it is something we've brought every week to every game, and we've been tough to play against all season. Yes, the results haven't always gone our way, but we have been tough to play against.

"Come Friday night, we will be well-prepared and I have no doubt that the supporters will see a very big reaction from the players.

"We love playing at Kingsholm. Friday night under lights, it will be a big atmosphere, and the players are looking forward to getting back there and responding to the disappointment of last weekend."