Wilkinson has been injured for much of the past two years

Wilkinson had his appendix removed last month but has recovered faster than expected and has been named as a replacement for Sunday's game.

Newcastle rugby director Rob Andrew said: "He has trained with us all week and there is no question he's ready.

"He is a very fast healer as well as being incredibly fit, so he will get on at some stage."

Wilkinson's return would be a huge boost for England coach Andy Robinson as he seeks to put a difficult first year behind him.

Good luck to the guy. He deserves a run of games and to stay injury free From FP Have your say on Scrum V

Wilkinson has not played for England since kicking the winning goal in the 2003 World Cup final, and was not named in the national squad for this autumn's internationals because of his injury.

But his early return may now mean that he could make his international comeback far quicker than expected.

Andrew said: "He just needs a clear run of three or so months, playing something near 80 minutes a week, before people can start making judgements on him.