Joe Marler is back on the front line for England as they prepare to face Ireland.
The Sussex-based former Worthing Raiders loose-head returns to the starting XV for Eddie Jones’ home debut as England coach.
His fellow Sussex boy Joe Launchbury has already been ruled out by a hamstring problem.
Jones highlighted Marler’s efforts as replacement in the late show against Italy last time out as he revealed he would start ahead of Mako Vunipola in Saturday’s Six Nations clash.
The England chief said: “Joe Marler made a big impact off the bench in Rome and will start the game with Mako Vunipola finishing the match.
“Joe Launchbury is unlucky to miss out through injury.
“Maro Itoje is selected as a result and we’re pleased for him.”
England: Brown; Watson, Joseph, Farrell, Nowell; Ford, Youngs; Marler, Hartley, Cole; Itoje, Kruis; Robshaw, B.Vunipola, Haskell. Reps: Goode, Daly, Care, M.Vunipola, George, Hill, Lawes, Clifford.
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