Jury still out on Vunipola

England star Billy Vunipola (above) has had a “precautionary” scan on his injured ankle but is walking normally, according to coach Neal Hatley, adding that a full diagnosis wasn’t expected until today.

The No 8, an integral part of England’s plans, was substituted at half-time during England’s 3910 win against Argentina on Saturday.

Head coach Eddie Jones had initially tried to shrug off the injury, saying Vunipola “slipped on a piece of Kobe beef”. He eventually admitted he had twisted his ankle, adding that it was not “too serious”.

Hatley revealed Vunipola had had his ankle scanned “as a precaution”.

“He’s busy being assessed and that will go on throughout the day and we’ll see how he pulls up tomorrow,” Hatley told reporters on Monday, with a firm diagnosis expected in the next 24 hours.

Hatley said there were plenty of players in England’s pack who could compensate for Vunipola’s carrying ability if the number eight is ruled out.

“You plan for all eventualities. With what we’ve got with Ellis Genge and Mako (Vunipola), Kyle Sinckler, Maro Itoje, Courtney Lawes. People pick up the slack like you have to,” he said.

Hooker Jamie George added that Jones had told the other forwards to carry more when Vunipola came off against Argentina.

“Whenever they see me or Billy as an option, Willi just passes to Billy, which is probably fair enough,” he said, referring to scrumhalf Willi Heinz.

England, who have already qualified for the quarterfinals, play France on Saturday to decide who tops Pool C. –

Tokyo–