Tom Wood is the only fit-to-play Saints star retained by England ahead of this weekend’s clash with Australia at Twickenham.
That means Lee Dickson, Phil Dowson and Courtney Lawes, who has recovered from a knee injury, are all available for selection for Sunday’s LV= Cup game at Newport-Gwent Dragons.
Northampton skipper Dylan Hartley will not return to Franklin’s Gardens, though, as his knee problem continues to be treated in camp.
Lawes has not played for Saints since being forced off in 28th minute of the 16-6 defeat to Saracens on October 27.
But England boss Stuart Lancaster is now hoping the lock gets some game time for his club ahead of the two final autumn internationals, against South Africa and New Zealand.
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