In Eddie Jones‘ Six Nations squad announcement press conference, Jones reiterated that Farrell ‘is the right man to lead the team’, despite calls for his removal from the captaincy role.
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 06: Owen Farrell of England is tackled by George Turner and Scott Cummings during the Guinness Six Nations match between England and Scotland at Twickenham Stadium on February 06, 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 David Rogers/Getty Images)
Farrell hasn’t played for Saracens since November because of an ankle injury and had hoped to return against London Irish in the Challenge Cup on Sunday.
Jones refused to reveal his vice captains, but it is expected that Courtney Lawes – who shone as captain in last year’s Autumn Nations Series in Farrell’s absence, will take the reins once more.
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 23: Courtney Lawes of England waves to fans after receiving the man of the match award during the 2020 Guinness Six Nations match between England and Ireland at Twickenham Stadium on February 23, 2020 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
It is expected that Marcus Smith will start at 10 with Jones’ options at inside centre now seemingly limited to Mark Atkinson or Henry Slade from his 36-man squad.
It is unknown the length or nature of Farrell’s injury, but it is expected he will return for England’s match away in Italy in round two of the tournament on the 13th February.
