Lions captain Itoje supports Owen Farrell's England return

British & Irish Lions captain Maro Itoje has strongly backed the idea of Owen Farrell returning to the England national team, describing the veteran playmaker as “one of the best England players we’ve ever seen.”

Farrell, who rejoined the Lions camp in Australia as an injury replacement, has quickly made an impression in training and stirred talk of a Test-level comeback.

Speaking about his long-time Saracens teammate, Itoje was clear in his support.

“If he wants to play for England, why not? That would be amazing if that’s in his plans and in his dreams.

"Owen is one of the best England players we’ve ever seen. A fit Owen Farrell makes any team better.”

The 33-year-old Farrell last played for England during the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

He then stepped away from the international game to prioritise his mental wellbeing and spend more time with his family. That decision, along with his move to Racing 92 in France, made him ineligible for England selection under the RFU’s overseas player rule.

However, his recent decision to rejoin Saracens for the 2025–26 season has reopened the door for a return to Test rugby.

When asked about whether Farrell had hinted at a possible England comeback, Itoje added: “I think he wants to play rugby. I think he wants to play well, and everything after that is a consequence of that.”

Farrell has already taken part in Lions training sessions since joining the squad in Australia, often lining up at inside centre and linking smoothly with fly-halves Finn Russell, Fin Smith, and Marcus Smith.

Lions head coach Andy Farrell, who is also Owen’s father, confirmed that the decision to include his son in the touring squad was a “group call.” The elder Farrell said,

“We all know what Owen brings, not just to the field but to the environment. He’s slotted straight back in, and the boys respect him.”

The Lions begin their three-Test series against Australia on July 19 in Brisbane.