Heavyweight prop Mako Vunipola has revealed that a letter from Eddie Jones told him 'not to eat too much' ahead of his England selection battle with Joe Marler.

The 25-year-old put on half-a-stone during his summer holidays in Tonga, after establishing himself as the No1 Red Rose loose-head in June's whitewash against Australia.

Marler pulled out of the tour due to mental burnout, but on Sunday the Quins front-row returned to the Red Rose scene for a three-day training camp in Brighton.

Mako Vunipola has revealed that a letter from Eddie Jones told him 'not to eat too much'

Jones warned the prop to stay in shape if he wanted to keep his England place this autumn

'A couple of weeks ago I got a letter saying I was in contention,' said Vunipola.

'Everyone got (a) letter, reminding us what to work on. Mine said not to eat too much - to lose some weight. I tried to look after what I ate and my diet during the summer.

'Eddie keeps you on your toes. I'm fighting for my place in this squad. Joe Marler's a world-class player so to have him back in the squad is a bonus.

The England international prop put on half-a-stone during his summer holidays in Tonga

Vunipola is set to compete with Joe Marler for a starting place for England this autumn

'He's a good guy and I usually play some cards with him. He's in good spirits and he's enjoying his rugby.'