Farrell recalled as England go for extra ‘edge’

Jones to shuffle back line with May returning Lawes says Australia are ‘step up’ from Argentina

Owen Farrell is poised to make the transition from team water boy to England’s midfield general for the second autumn Test against Australia at Twickenham on Saturday.

Farrell, who was rested by England head coach Eddie Jones for the opening victory against Argentina last Saturday, is expected to return to the starting line-up in a new-look back line that will also include Jonny May, the Leicester wing, who has recovered from a hamstring injury.

The England squad undertook a double training session yesterday on what is normally a rest day as Jones looked to alter their regime to prepare for the conditions they might face during short turnarounds during the World Cup in Japan in 2019.

The indications last night were that Farrell was likely to return at inside centre, with Henry Slade switching to outside centre, while Anthony Watson is in line to move from wing to full-back if, as expected, Mike Brown is ruled out with a head injury. Joe Marler will return to the match-day squad after serving his three-match suspension.

The reinstatement of the George Ford/ Farrell axis at 10 and 12, however, will be the selection of most interest to Australia’s think tank.

Courtney Lawes, who will retain his place in the second row, said Farrell was one of the most focused players he had ever come across.

“He’s a brilliant leader and an exceptional player as well,” said Lawes. “He’s a player who can change a course of a game and, obviously, the dynamics of the team.