Steve Borthwick is ‘hopeful’ England star Manu Tuilagi remains in the country and continues his international career.

Tuilagi is in the squad ahead of what could be an emotional swansong for him against France.

But Borthwick said: “I’m hopeful that he’ll be staying in England. There are no plans confirmed as yet to my understanding.

“Manu adds huge amounts to this squad, he’s a player who impacts upon people and he impacts upon games, and I’m looking forward to seeing him impact upon this game on Saturday night.

“Ultimately, that’s up to Manu and the opportunities that present themselves within England. From my point of view, he knows I would want him to be in England; I want all our best players playing in England.”