Manu Tuilagi in England squad to play Wales in Six Nations clash

By Matthew Treadwell

Image: Manu Tuilagi (third right) could return to the England side

Manu Tuilagi has been included in England's matchday squad for their Six Nations clash with Wales on Saturday.

Leicester centre Tuilagi could bring to an end his injury-enforced 20-month international absence if he comes off the bench at Twickenham.

Tigers' director of rugby Richard Cockerill has voiced concerns that Tuilagi, who has struggled with groin and hamstring problems, is not ready for a return to the international stage.

But England head coach Eddie Jones disagrees and has included him in his squad, with Alex Goode the man to make way.

Wasps back Elliot Daly is retained for the penultimate round of the competition, while his club team-mate Joe Launchbury returns after sitting out the 21-10 win over Ireland with a hamstring injury.

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Image: England head coach Eddie Jones has included Tuilagi in his matchday squad

Northampton prop Kieran Brookes comes in to replace fellow Saints player Paul Hill in the 24, while Luke Cowan-Dickie of Exeter remains with the squad as cover for Jamie George at hooker.

"Jamie George sustained an injury to his arm during this afternoon's [Tuesday's] training so Luke Cowan-Dickie remains with the squad as cover while Jamie undergoes further medical assessments," said England head coach Eddie Jones. 

Also See:

Warren Gatland says it was an easy decision to pick the same team for Wales' clash against England

England remain on course for the Grand Slam, having won their opening three matches against Scotland, Italy and Ireland.

ENGLAND SQUAD:

Forwards: Kieran Brookes, Dan Cole, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Jack Clifford, Jamie George, Dylan Hartley, James Haskell, Maro Itoje, George Kruis, Joe Launchbury, Joe Marler, Chris Robshaw, Billy Vunipola, Mako Vunipola

Backs: Mike Brown, Danny Care, Elliot Daly, Owen Farrell, George Ford, Jonathan Joseph, Jack Nowell, Manu Tuilagi, Anthony Watson, Ben Youngs 

Eddie Jones names his England team to play Wales on Thursday. Watch Sky Sports News HQ from 10am to see the announcement.

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