ENGLAND COACH STUART Lancaster has made three changes to the matchday 23 who ran out convincing winners over Italy a fortnight ago.

The concussion suffered by fullback Mike Brown in that victory has brought one enforced change to the England back three with Saracens’ Alex Goode wearing number 15.

The one tactical switch made by Lancaster is the recall of Exeter Chiefs’ Jack Nowell in placed of Gloucester’s Jonny May on the left wing.

“We’ve made minimal changes as we felt the squad have performed well in the first two games,” says the England coach.

Alex is in good form for Saracens and has been training well over the last few weeks, as has Jack, who is also playing well for Exeter. Both have been pushing hard for selection and I am sure will seize their chance against a high quality Ireland side.

“Chris Pennell and Manu Tuilagi will also travel. Manu has been recovering with us and so it’s good to continue keeping him connected.”

Luther Burrell and Jonathan Joseph continue their impressive centre partnership with George Ford and Ben Youngs paired at half-back.

The third change made by Lancaster comes on the replacements bench where Bath tighthead Henry Thomas comes in for Kieran Brookes.

England (v Ireland, March 1, 15.00):

15. Alex Goode
14. Anthony Watson
13. Jonathan Joseph
12. Luther Burrell
11. Jack Nowell
10. George Ford
9. Ben Youngs

1. Joe Marler
2. Dylan Hartley
3. Dan Cole
4. David Attwood
5. George Kruis
6. James Haskell
7. Chris Robshaw (capt)
8. Billy Vunipola

Replacements

16. Tom Youngs
17. Mako Vunipola
18. Henry Thomas
19. Nick Easter
20. Tom Croft
21. Richard Wigglesworth
22. Danny Cipriani
23. Billy Twelvetrees

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