England could hand Alfie Barbeary an international debut and his Wasps team-mate Joe Launchbury a recall in this weekend’s Six Nations clash with Ireland at Twickenham.
Both men have been retained in a 26-man squad to train ahead of Thursday’s team announcement, with Saracens lock Nick Isiekwe – who has appeared in every match of the campaign so far – and Bath flanker Sam Underhill, who is only recently over injury, among those released back to their clubs.
Launchbury has not played for England since late 2020 due to injury, but benefits from Isiekwe being dropped, while No8 Barbeary could step in if Alex Dombrandt does not overcome Covid-19.
Jamie Blamire is set to come into the 23 for the injured Luke Cowan-Dickie, while Tom Curry has to prove that he has recovered from the concussion he suffered against Wales. He will not train on Wednesday but, all being well, can on Thursday.
While changes are expected in the pack, Eddie Jones has opted for the same 10 backs who made the matchday 23 for the win over Wales.
