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As it happenedended

England squad announcement: Eddie Jones brings in Chris Ashton for Jack Nowell to face France

The Red Rose aim to remain perfect after a big win in Ireland to start their Six Nations campaign

Jack de Menezes
Friday 08 February 2019 11:37 GMT
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Six Nations round-up: England beat champions Ireland

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England’s Six Nations squad announcement produced a significant change as Eddie Jones welcomes back Chris Ashton to face France this Sunday at Twickenham.

After last weekend’s triumphant performance in Ireland, Jones' side have now been installed as tournament favourites, England will look to make it back-to-back wins when they face France, who suffered an agonising 24-19 defeat by Wales on the opening night of the tournament last Friday.

Maro Itoje has been ruled out with injury, and while Courtney Lawes comes back into the side, Jones has elected to switch Jack Nowell with Ashton on the right wing, with both Joe Cokanasiga and Brad Shields left out.

Hear what Jones and Owen Farrell had to say below.

Please allow a moment for the blog to load.

Owen Farrell on Ashton:

He's just been himself, everybody knows what Ashy can do and he'll be ready to get his opportunity on Sunday.

Jack de Menezes8 February 2019 11:01

Owen Farrell:

We've spent a bit more time together and we feel like we're getting better.

Jack de Menezes8 February 2019 11:02

Owen Farrell on France:

They're a very big team, a very tough team to play against and can suck you in by playing one way and then doing something else. They can punish you and we've got to make sure we're ready for anything.

Jack de Menezes8 February 2019 11:03

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