In need of a fix Key headaches for Jones

How deep is the loosehead talent?

England can arguably lay claim to the most impressive stable of loosehead props in the world, but will now have to dig deeper than ever. Even with Joe Marler’s retirement and injuries to Mako Vunipola, Ellis Genge, Matt Mullan and Beno Obano, they can call on the reliable Exeter pair of Alec Hepburn (right) and Ben Moon.

Which way does the back-row rethink go?

Balancing the back five is tougher without the heft of Billy Vunipola and Nathan Hughes. Sam Simmonds is out as well. Will Eddie Jones bring in a specialist carrier? Mobile men Zach Mercer, Ben Earl, Matt Kvesic and Mark Wilson have had game time at No8 this season. Eddie Jones has heavy locks and flankers to help them out.

Scrum-half uncertainty

Dan Robson’s ankle injury arrived at an inopportune time. Ben Youngs is not playing particularly well for Leicester, so the lively Wasp could have pushed hard for game time. Ben Spencer showed enough from the bench in South Africa to return to the squad, but Youngs and Danny Care have to step up as elder statesmen.

Midfield make-up still causing an issue

A lightweight midfield – George Ford, Owen Farrell and Henry Slade, for instance – looks more vulnerable. Ben Te’o attended the most recent camp despite being unable to train. It will be tempting to deploy that power. Is Alex Lozowski (left) the all-round option at inside centre? Johnny Williams and Ryan Mills are playing well, too.