Freddie Burns could feature against Italy on March 10 © Getty Images

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Players/Officials: Freddie Burns

Tournaments/Tours: Six Nations

Teams: England | Gloucester Rugby

England fly-half Freddie Burns is hopeful of playing some part in Gloucester's match against local rivals Bath on Friday.

Burns sustained a knee injury while on club duty against Mont-de-Marsan back in January. There were original fears that Burns had suffered a serious injury which could have ruled him out for a lengthy spell but he is hopeful of pulling on the Gloucester jersey this weekend.

The fly-half made his Test debut against New Zealand on December 1 and was in the frame for a spot in the England squad for their Six Nations opener against Scotland at the beginning of February.

Injury cut short these aspirations but with England sweating on the fitness of Owen Farrell ahead of their March 10 clash with Italy, if Burns shines on Friday then he has every chance of being thrown straight back into the international mix.

"It was obviously a big blow to get injured before the Six Nations," Burns said. "I've missed most of the tournament, obviously I hope to be fit for the last two games, but I only have one game realistically to prove match fitness and form.

"As soon as I got injured, it was obviously a disappointment for the first couple of days. But you've just got to put it to one side and, not write off the Six Nations, because you want to get back and help the boys.

"But, firstly, it's about getting fit and, secondly, it's all about performing for Gloucester on Friday if I'm selected. That's my focus at the minute, helping us to get that victory on Friday night, any way I can. It's something I've tried to do all year, just focus on my game for Gloucester. That's what gets you noticed by the England coaching team.

"So, it's back to square one for me, doing what I do for Gloucester and, if it results in a call up, then that's great. In the meantime, I'll just keep working hard for the club."