Ford to make first England start

GeorgeFord

Ford was widely expected to get his chance at fly-half and head coach Stuart Lancaster has given the 21-year-old the nod, so Owen Farrell will start at inside centre.

Ben Youngs comes in at half-back in place of Danny Care, while Ben Morgan replaces Billy Vunipola at eight and Rob Webber takes over as hooker with Dylan Hartley dropping to the bench.

James Haskell gets the chance to stake his claim to face Australia the following weekend and lines up in the back row with Morgan at the expense of Tom Wood and Billy Vunipola.

Billy Twelvetrees and Richard Wigglesworth have to settle for a place on the bench after they were recalled to the squad this weekend as England attempt to end a run of five consecutive defeats.

Those selected have a great opportunity to show what they can do against what will be a highly motivated Samoa team.

Lancaster told the Rugby Football Union's official website: "It's great to give George a start in this series, having missed the summer tour through injury.

"He has been impressive in camp and now fully up to speed with the game plan and he is ready to run the game.

"Owen switches to 12 and I am sure will support George well. In the back row both James and Ben have been in great form and I am sure they will bring their physical presence to the game. 

"Hooker is another competitive position and we believe Rob is ready for the start and will continue the progress he made on the New Zealand tour."

Team in full: Mike Brown, Anthony Watson, Brad Barritt, Owen Farrell, Jonny May, George Ford, Ben Youngs, Joe Marler, Rob Webber, David Wilson, Dave Attwood, Courtney Lawes, James Haskell, Chris Robshaw, Ben Morgan.

Replacements: Dylan Hartley, Matt Mullan, Kieran Brookes, George Kruis, Tom Wood, Richard Wigglesworth, Billy Twelvetrees, Marland Yarde

 

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