TIMANA Tahu has what it takes to play in the centres despite being sent home from the Wallabies' European tour after tearing a hamstring.

That's the view of Waratahs coach Chris Hickey, who keenly observed Tahu's efforts in the first 57 minutes against Italy. Tahu returned to Sydney yesterday from London where his Wallabies teammates will play England at Twickenham this weekend. Hickey had yet to speak to Tahu, but said the former Parramatta rugby league star showed against Italy that he had made great inroads on his game since his Wallabies starting debut against the Springboks in the Tri-Nations at Ellis Park.

"I saw some real development in the game, particular his ability to have a second effort on the field and an understanding of how that differs to rugby league," Hickey said. "He has got really good attacking ability, the ability to get into space. He offloads well. There are plenty of positives. It is obviously disappointing from his point of view because playing well, you like to build on that."

Based on what he saw of Tahu in the Wallabies No.12 jersey, Hickey sees him playing there or at No.13 for NSW next year.

"You have to look at your whole squad. Different things may impact where you might like to play somebody," Hickey said.

"The way the game is now with the ELVs you are very rarely in the same position as your jumper number. With ELVs it's really important not to worry about the number on your back. You could have 13 and end up at first receiver, or you have 10 on your back and end up as third receiver.

"His [Tahu's] skills will allow him to play all those positions in the backline, but certainly as a starter I would think for what I have seen, [he would play at] that 12 or 13 spot."

Tahu quickly cast aside the disappointment of his injury on the flight home by watching two comedy movies. "I had to cheer up some way, mate." he said with a smile. "I didn't really think about what happened, or think about my injury. I think I am over that I don't want to get down on myself. It is my third injury this year, but now I have three months to get it right."

Tahu was asked by Wallabies management if he wanted to stay in London and watch Australia play England. But he said he wanted to return home and focus on his rehabilitation and use the time off to be with his family.

He also realises he can't afford to dwell on the "what ifs" of his Wallabies tour demise. While he waited for his MRI scans on the injury yesterday, Tahu said the Wallabies medical staff would consult with Waratahs medico Sharron Flahive to map out the path back to full fitness for the Super 14.

"I want to get in the holiday mode first. It has been a big season. I haven't stopped since November," he said. "If I can get this [hamstring injury] right first, get into holidays and hopefully prepare myself for the Super 14, I should be right for the first game."

He had a message for those who suspect the Wallabies have been rattled by the vitriol of the English team and media that has attacked the Australians, especially tighthead prop Al Baxter. "The Pommies are giving it to us at the moment, but we are not going to throw any fuel on the fire and make it any bigger." Tahu said. "Al is a great player and he will prove them wrong."