Hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie remains in contention for England’s first autumn match against Argentina

Luke Cowan-Dickie remains in contention for England’s opening game of the autumn against Argentina because the Exeter hooker’s knee injury is not as dire as first thought.

The 29-year-old was sent off at half-time during Chiefs’ narrow Premier League defeat by Saracens at Sandy Park last Saturday.

There were initially fears that he would not be able to take part in England’s training camp here in Jersey this week, but he took part in a limited-overs session this morning and the outlook appears to be improving.

There were fears he would not be able to take part in England’s training camp in Jersey

Richard Cockerill, England’s forwards coach, said: “Luke has been involved in some units (training) this morning. As far as I know, it is being adjusted. There is every chance that he will be in full training next week.”

Head coach Eddie Jones will be hoping Cowan-Dickie recovers in time to be fully fit again early next week so he can be ready to face the Pumas and ensure England do not have to contend with the powerful South Americans without their two leading players.

Jamie George has already been ruled out of the entire November campaign with a foot injury.

George McGuigan (pictured) and Jack Singleton could line up in the middle of the front row

In addition to Cowen-Dickie, the contenders for the middle of the front row are Gloucester’s Jack Singleton – who has played just three matches to date – and Newcastle’s prolific George McGuigan, who is yet to make his major Test debut.

Cockerill was adamant the pair could handle it if asked, adding: “I was very impressed with both of them.

“They both play in forward groups that are very good in the standard part – both in the scrum and the line-out – so they fit that mold very, very well for us.

“They’ve been in squads before and they’ve worked really hard to take advantage of the opportunity when the opportunity comes.”

Cockerill was asked for an update on the progress of Courtney Lawes and Owen Farrell, who are both looking to go through return-to-play protocols at their respective clubs – Northampton and Saracens – following head injuries.

He said: “They are still going through normal protocols and we have no further news on that.” If they are right, they will join the squad.

“If they’re not, we’ll do everything we can to make sure they’re fully recovered before they come back.”