George Ford set to replace Owen Farrell in England’s Six Nations squad
GLOUCESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 24: George Ford of Leicester Tigers takes a kick at goal during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Gloucester Rugby and Leicester Tigers at Kingsholm Stadium on September 24, 2021 in Gloucester, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
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.
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.
