Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, 23, has been cleared to play for Exeter Chiefs in the Premiership final at Twickenham against Northampton Saints on Saturday, following recovery from facial surgery [1, 2, 3].
Feyi-Waboso sustained a facial fracture in Exeter’s win over Leicester on May 31 and underwent surgery involving a plate insertion in his jaw in early June [1, 3]. After extensive recovery, England's national medical team and Exeter’s club surgeons assessed his fitness and supported his decision to declare himself fit to play [2, 3]. Rob Baxter, a medical figure associated with Exeter, said, "England have been fully behind Manny making the call. Everyone, including the surgeon, has given him all the information on where he is. That's been fully assessed, and England have been very happy for Manny to make the decision." [2]
Feyi-Waboso took part in limited-contact training this week and will not require a protective mask if selected for the final. Baxter added, "All the information is very, very positive. It’s not like there’s damage that needs protecting so let’s get on with it now. For obvious reasons he’s been in a red bib so players know to avoid any level of contact but we’ve done very little tackling this week, even grab tackling. He’s been running around so is fully ready to go." [3]
England head coach Steve Borthwick expressed support for players competing in high-stakes club matches ahead of international duties. He said, "I want players to play in big games; games where there are trophies on the line, games where there are consequences, games where they are going to perform with the incredible effect of pressure upon them. That’s the best preparation for Test match rugby. I’ve always believed that." [1]
Other players expected to feature in the final include Northampton scrum-half Alex Mitchell, who recovered from a hamstring strain during an England training camp, and Exeter back row Ethan Roots, who returned from a head knock and cleared medical protocols [1, 2, 3].
Kickoff for the Premiership final at Twickenham is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. BST on Saturday [2].
