Cross-code convert Sam Burgess could make his rugby union debut for Bath against Harlequins in the Premiership on Friday.

Bath head coach Mike Ford admitted the 25-year-old remains in contention to be among the replacements at the Rec.

Burgess has only recently returned to full training having broken his cheekbone during his final rugby league outing in South Sydney Rabbitohs’ Grand Final triumph in October.

“It might be a possibility,” said Ford. “We haven’t decided on the team for Friday yet. We will keep a close eye on him to see where he is.”

“We are just waiting for Sam to tell us when he feels ready. We just need to take it day by day.”

The former league star had been touted as outside inclusion for Stuart Lancaster’s England squad this autumn until injury ruled him out of contention.

Despite having no experience in the 15-man format England could have done with his power up front after struggling for dynamic ball carriers in disappointing opening defeats to New Zealand and South Africa.

Lancaster is yet to confirm where Burgess fits into his international plans, with the players versatility allowing him to play in a number of positions.

With Manu Tuilagi and Luther Burrell also on the casualty list, Lancaster has so far tested Brad Barritt, Kyle Eastmond and Owen Farrell at 12 and 13, but to little avail, even against minnows Samoa.

Gloucester centre Billy Twelvetrees is expected to forge England’s third midfield partnership in their final match of the series against Australia on Saturday.

Picture Credits: @GoBathBoutique