Daly is now the centre of attention for Jones
EDDIE JONES is impressed by Elliot Daly’s navigation through a difficult period of his career after picking the versatile England back at outside centre for the first time in almost five years.
A week after being ousted by Max Malins at full-back, Daly has been reinstated to the starting XV for Saturday’s Six Nations finale against Ireland in Dublin after Henry Slade failed to recover from a calf injury.
Daly last appeared in the midfield against South Africa in 2016 and following a two-year spell on the wing, he reigned as England’s first-choice 15 until a slide in form resulted in his demotion to the bench after winning his 50th cap against Wales in round three.
Arriving as a second-half replacement in the 23-20 victory over France last Saturday, the 28-year-old made an impact with two eye-catching runs and now returns in a new role.
“Elliot’s had to dig down deep into himself and find the best of himself,” said head coach Jones.
“It’s been a tough Six Nations for Elliot but he’s coming back into his best form and he’s got a great opportunity in his preferred position.
“If it’s a high-volume kicking game, which it probably will be, then his work-rate off the ball, his ability to get back on kick returns and his ability to kick-chase are going to be really important.
“And he’s got a great engine on him, Elliot. He’s strong defensively and we know he’s a penetrative runner. If we get some quick ball, he’ll trouble Ireland on the outside.”
Slade was injured in training on Monday and despite England’s optimism that he would be fit for their climax to the Six Nations, he has failed to recover in time.
England team to play Ireland: Malins; Watson, Daly, Farrell (capt), May; Ford, Youngs; M Vunipola, Cowan-Dickie, Sinckler, Itoje, Ewels, Wilson, Curry, B Vunipola. Replacements: George, Genge, Stuart, Hill, Earl, Robson, Lawrence, Marchant.