Veteran centre Manu Tuilagi has been named on the bench for England ahead of Saturday’s Six Nations clash with France in Lyon in what could be his final game for his country.
Tuilagi, 32, has been heavily linked with a move overseas when his contract at Sale Sharks runs out this summer.
It’s the first time he has been named in the matchday squad since last year’s Rugby World Cup bronze- medal match against Argentina.
Tuilagi comes into the squad for the injured winger Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, who showed signs of concussion after last week’s dramatic win against Ireland at Twickenham.
Elliot Daly takes Feyi-Waboso’s place in the starting XV, with Tommy Freeman switching to the right wing while George Furbank keeps his place at fullback to complete the back three.
The forward pack remains unchanged, with Ellis Genge, captain Jamie George and Dan Cole making up the front-row.
Maro Itoje and George Martin form the second-row partnership, with Sam Underhill, Ben Earl and Ollie Chessum completing the back of the scrum.
There’s an air of positivity around the England side after the victory over Ireland, but coach Steve Borthwick wants to see even more from his side against France.
“After such a hard-fought win against Ireland last week, we realise how important it is to back that performance up with another similar display in Lyon on Saturday,” Borthwick said.
“France remain one of the very top sides in the world, and will pose a great challenge for us.
“We’ve had a great preparation so far this week and there is a genuine sense of anticipation and determination around the camp as we head to what will be an exciting final weekend.”