Dane Coles could continue his rapid return to international rugby with an appearance against England this weekend after All Blacks assistant coach Ian Foster said the hooker had arrived in London looking sharp.
Coles made his first appearance in the black jersey in 12 months on Saturday evening when he played against the Brave Blossoms in Japan.
After a solid performance in the 69-31 win, Coles and other team members flew to England to join the remainder of the squad as they prepare for this weekend's Test at Twickenham - a game Foster says the 31-year-old could be part of.
"He's had good minutes in Japan," Foster said.
"We have to hold back some of those boys (who played against Japan) back a little bit today and make a good assessment tomorrow but I think if you ask him, he's ready to go.
"He's talking back to coaches during training, doing everything that Dane Coles normally does so it's a good sign."
Coles made two appearances for Wellington before rejoining the All Blacks, having not played since last November due to a knee injury suffered against France.
Teammate and selection rival Codie Taylor says he's in awe of Coles' determination.
"It is inspiring for someone about for that long to come back and it's like he never left - it's very inspiring.
"Just his energy out there, you could sense he was ready to get stuck in. I think it was a great stepping stone for him to get back into some serious test footy.
"He does what he always does - he performed in a black jersey."
SHARE ME