England forwards coach Steve Borthwick admits the loss of Chris Ashton to the squad is significant but believes his absence can be filled.
Ashton injured his calf during England’s 35-15 win over Japan in last Saturday’s Quilter Internationals Test, and will take no further part in the remainder of the November series, which concludes on Saturday, against Australia.
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The Sale wing has been ruled out for two weeks, having made his international return earlier this month.
“Chris is a fantastic player that knows his way to the try line,” said Borthwick. “He has been great around the squad these last few weeks so it is very disappointing, but it always gives opportunity to other players, and we have a lot of good players in that area.”