On the list of the most erudite British and Irish Lions players, Maro Itoje must feature near the top. Of those I have interviewed on the last seven tours, perhaps only Tom Court, the former Ulster and Ireland prop,

Maro Itoje has said he will welcome Owen Farrell back to the England set-up and that the 112-cap playmaker makes any team better when he is at full fitness.

Captain Maro Itoje would welcome Owen Farrell's return to the England fold if his Saracens team-mate wants to come back into the squad.