George Lowe may have barely played any rugby in the last 12 months, but that will not stop him taking on the cream of Europe.

The Kingston-born 24-year-old made his top flight comeback as a second half replacement in last Friday’s 22-16 defeat to Leicester Tigers at Welford Road.

His cameo came less than a week after playing his first game – an A League encounter with Saracens – since suffering a serious neck injury in September last year.

Coach Tony Diprose had said he would not be rushed back, but director of rugby Conor O’Shea had no hesitation in throwing him to the Tigers last week.

So much so that he expects the former Epsom College student to play a leading part in tonight’s European Champions Cup clash with Castres.

“George is a perfect example of mental strength,” said O’Shea.

“He got treated a little bit like a rag doll against Sarries, but when you saw his reaction after that game, you could see he just wanted to play again.

“He is an outstanding player, who is wonderfully competitive and a great example to any young player because he just gets on with his job.

“I would think he will give Castres plenty to think about.”

O’Shea also confirmed scrum half Danny Care would play after partner Jodie gave birth to son Blake last week, which saw him withdrawn from the trip to the Midlands.