Howell ready to face the new season

The 26 year old was the top try scorer for Harlequins last season, crossing the whitewash 14 times. However he missed the final five games of the season after suffering an horrific facial industry in training.

Now nearly fully recovered, Howell is back in full contact training and is relishing the season kicking off at the Stoop on January 30th against Wakefield.

“Physically, my injury has healed up really well and I’m fine for preseason training which is now well underway.

“I’m seeing the club physiotherapist for some exercises to help with the movement and feeling; I still can’t smile properly, but I’m getting there.”

Howell joins the squad in their fifth week of training and ahead of their trip to an army base next week for their preseason training camp.

“The squad are looking really good and I’m glad to be back in training with them. I did train during the break back in Australia - and surfed a lot - but you can’t beat training with the team.

“The coaches haven’t given much away about the training camp, so we’re not really sure what to expect but it’s always interesting when the whole team gets together for a week.”

Harlequins have announced two preseason friendlies to date. First up they play Crusaders Rugby League in the Jon Wells Testimonial Match* on Saturday 16th January at Rosslyn Park, followed by the Capital Challenge against London Skolars on Friday 22nd January at the HAC Ground.

*Click here for tickets or call 0871 527 1315.