George Ford set to replace Owen Farrell in England's Six Nations squad

By BEN REDWOOD

George Ford is set to be recalled into the England squad as a replacement for injured captain Owen Farrell.

The Sale Sharks fly-half is set to be recalled after controversially being left out of Eddie Jones’ original 36-man squad. Uncapped Bath youngster Orlando Bailey was favoured in the squad ahead of Ford due to his ability to play in different positions in the backs.

Farrell will miss the Six Nations opener at Murrayfield on Saturday 5th February, with Courtney Lawes favourite to take over as captain.

The emergence of Marcus Smith in the autumn means that Farrell was likely to play at inside centre in the opener.

This season, George Ford has been hugely impressive for Leicester Tigers this season and has been an integral part of the side that has lost just one match all season.

Despite his outstanding club form, 77-cap Ford has been overlooked since the autumn with Marcus Smith starring at number 10. Jones has sought versatility with his backs, putting Ford at a disadvantage.

England fly-half George Ford — LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 13: George Ford of England looks on during the Guinness Six Nations match between England and France at Twickenham Stadium on March 13, 2021 in London, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall confirmed on Sunday that Farrell would at miss at least the first part of the Championship after turning an ankle in club training in midweek. The 30-year-old is set to see a specialist on Monday.

The fresh ankle injury is a separate issue to the injury Farrell picked up in the victory over Australia in November, an issue that has ruled Farrell out for the last two months.

Details of the replacement are set to be announced today. England meet in Brighton this week for a training camp before ramping up preparations for the Calcutta Cup showdown at Murrayfield.