Chris Robshaw, James Horwill and Joe Marler all return from injury for Harlequins as they host Sale under the Friday night lights at Twickenham Stoop.

Both Robshaw and Horwill have recovered from concussion, while Marler is back in the fold after a back problem.

Their return will be a relief for director of rugby John Kingston, who was without 25 of his players in last week’s defeat against Northampton.

The game against Sale marks the beginning of Kyle Sinckler’s seven-week ban for gouging, as Quins look to end their two-game losing streak and climb the Premiership table.

"The league is getting more and more competitive, combative and physical.” said Kingston.

"People are taking bigger hits and there are bigger collisions happening all of the time.

“It's become very difficult and injuries are inevitable.

“Sale had a hugely impressive win last week and we know they have threats across the park.

“However, at The Stoop, we are always confident and will be looking to turn in a quality performance to secure victory at the end of this initial run of matches.”

Sale, meanwhile thumped Gloucester Rugby 57-10 last weekend, their second league win of the campaign.

Director of rugby Steve Diamond added: "We don't want to get too carried away - we've hit a bit of form at home but most people would expect us to do that.

"To be pushing for the top six and challenging, you've got to be picking three wins up on the road over the season and win your home games."