Maro Itoje said it would be “amazing” if Owen Farrell was planning to return to the England squad in the future.

Farrell won 112 caps for England before stepping away from international duty after the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

The 33-year-old is eligible to be called up to the England squad after making a return to Saracens from Racing 92 for next season.

British and Irish Lions captain, and England skipper, Itoje said he would happily welcome an England return for Farrell.

“I want to see him happy,” said Itoje. “If he wants to play for England, why not? That would be amazing if that is in his plans and in his dreams.

“Owen is one of the best England players that we've ever seen. A fit Owen Farrell makes any team better. If that's in his ambitions, why not?

“I've had the honour and privilege of playing alongside Owen for all but one of the years I've played professional rugby. He's a real team man. He always wants the team to do well. He's quite selfless in that respect.”

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Itoje and Farrell have a strong connection with one another, which started during their school days.

Farrell was called up to the Lions squad to replace the injured Elliot Daly, causing some negative reaction.

Itoje, though, was baffled by such criticism.

“It's quite remarkable, really,” Itoje said. “He does provoke pretty strong reactions, either way. It's pretty crazy.

“I'm sure he's thinking, like, 'what did I do?' But no, he's fine, and I think everything will be cool.

“Owen and I actually went to the same school. When I was in Year Seven, he was in Year 10 – so I've known Owen since I was 11.

“I have a very good relationship with him. And he just wants the squad to do well. He's obviously back at Saracens now, which is great.”