Six Nations: England Injury Update

Harlequins back-rower Jack Clifford has become the latest player added to England's injury list ahead of the Six Nations clash with Ireland in Dublin this weekend.

The backrower suffered a head injury in training.

“Jack took a knock to the head so what we’ve decided to do is to manage him,” said England defence coach John Mitchell.

“It’s not an HIA outcome but it’s more important to manage him, so he’s returned home early as he won’t be able to get through most of the work remaining.”

Set back for @Harlequins Jack Clifford who is out of Irish match. “Jack took a knock to the head so what we’ve decided to do is to manage him,” said @EnglandRugby John Mitchell who revealed Clifford has returned home from Portugal camp.

— chris jones (@chrisjonespress) January 28, 2019

Clifford has been sent home with back-row Shields and wing Cokanasiga struggling to recover in time for the trip to Dublin this weekend.

Owen Farrell has made good progress after undergoing thumb surgery and is on course to lead the team but Shields and Cokanasiga have until Wednesday to prove they have fully recovered from their respective side and knee injuries.

"Our main session is on Wednesday. We'll be in a better position by then to know exactly where we'll be at with individuals," Mitchell said.

"Brad is progressing really nicely. He was in contact conditioning and is moving nicely.

"Owen has been integrating further and further as the sessions have gone on. He's very vocal and very energetic. It looks like he's enjoyed little bit of a break.

"He's been jumping into contact progressively and seems pretty good and isn't shirking any of his duties."