England must re-group and come back stronger this weekend, after they suffered their record home defeat to France last Saturday.
A 10-53 away victory for Les Bleus stunned the Twickenham crowd, with Steve Borthwick’s men humbled by the second best team in the world.
Now England have the imposing task of taking on Ireland. The number one ranked side in the world, Ireland are lining up their first Six Nations title and Grand Slam since 2018.
Andy Farrell’s men look as dangerous as ever, leaving Steve Borthwick with tough decisions to make ahead of the St Patrick’s Weekend trip to Dublin.
England’s latest squad update saw ever-impressive centre Ollie Lawrence let go, after he suffered a hamstring injury against France.
This opens up a hotly contested spot in the middle of the park, as Manu Tuilagi looks to return to the squad, and Owen Farrell is ready to start from kick off, after his off-the-bench appearance against France.
Marcus Smith was arguably the best player on the pitch for England, as his sparks of brilliance gave the disappointed fans something to cheer against France.
Will Farrell re-claim the 10 jersey, or can the Smith-Farrell partnership co-exist in Ireland? Ollie Chessum has also been released due to suffering an ankle injury in training, with Leicester Tigers teammate George Martin called into the squad.
It would be a very tough team for Borthwick to chose this week, but here is how England are expected to line up when they face Ireland.
15. Freddie Steward
14. Max Malins
11. Anthony Watson
13. Manu Tuilagi
12. Owen Farrell (C)