England's leading scrum-half is set to be ruled out of the entire World Cup with Owen Farrell set to miss the start of the tournament after being sent off.
Jack van Poortvliet was the preferred choice at No 9 throughout the last Six Nations and he was named to start in a strong Red Rose line-up against Wales at Twickenham on Saturday.
But the 22-year-old Leicester prodigy was helped off after a heavy collision with team-mate Ollie Lawrence during the opening 40.
The Mail Sport reported last night that he sustained a notable ankle injury, meaning he would miss the entire 2023 Rugby World Cup.
In response, the team management, headed by Steve Borthwick, shared, "During our earlier preparation phase, we had Alex Mitchell among us, who also made appearances during the Six Nations matches.
"He contributed in four out of five games during that championship. We have advised all our substitute players to remain prepared for stepping in as required."
Borthwick stressed the significance of nurturing depth in crucial positions, further stating, "Maintaining ample alternatives for these pivotal roles is of utmost importance.
"At this juncture, we need to gather more details about Jack's condition, as it remains uncertain to us at this point."
Sir Clive Woodward ‘rips up’ England backline and makes significant changes
He recommended a reshuffle in that area before their upcoming match in Dublin next weekend.
#1. George Ford for Owen Farrell
Woodward wrote: "With Farrell poised for suspension, the door opens for George Ford at No 10. One man’s loss is another’s opportunity and what an opportunity it is for Ford now.
"Ford is a fantastic player and England are lucky to have him and Marcus Smith as talented options even without Farrell. Ford has to start against Ireland in Dublin on Saturday."
#2. Elliot Daly at outside-centre
Woodward wrote: "Arundell needs to see far more of the ball. I’d also be severely tempted to have a look at Elliot Daly at outside centre."
#3. Anthony Watson for Joe Marchant
Woodward wrote: "I'd also bring Anthony Watson into the picture. The Argentina game is now looming ominously on the horizon.
"It’s not the time to panic. Borthwick must see all of this as an opportunity and not a crisis, but there can be no doubt time is running out."
#4. Alex Mitchell for Jack van Poortvliet
England backline to face Ireland: 9. Alex Mitchell, 10. George Ford, 11. Henry Arundell, 12. Ollie Lawrence, 13. Elliot Daly, 14. Anthony Watson, 15. Freddie Steward
