Thorley could become a ‘hybrid forward’

EDDIE Jones’ drive to create hybrid players comfortable operating in either the forwards or backs will equip England to face all eventualities, according to defence coach John Mitchell.

Ollie Thorley, the Gloucester wing, has been running as a flanker in training this week while versatile back row Ben Earl is seen as an option at centre.

Jones has floated the idea of deploying nine forwards in Saturday’s Autumn Nations Cup opener at Twickenham in wariness of Georgia’s forward power.

“It’s something that’s really important. It actually helps players within the squad understand that at any point in time, you might have to be adaptable,” he said.

“It does obviously create permutations, should you get a good acceleration and learning in that particular area when you do that.

“You can go to a six-two split on the bench or you can create that hybrid position in your starting selection.

“To me, it’s just something that our players accept and embrace with all arms because it’s just another way of learning that you might be called upon in a different position.

“You only have to look at the number of cards that were presented in the last Rugby Championship match between New Zealand and Australia.

“There are so many situations now where you are without players in positions and people have to be adaptable.”

Elliot Daly continues to take a full part in training after overcoming a shin problem, placing George Furbank’s place at full-back under threat.

Prop Joe Marler is available after a knee injury, but fly-half George Ford is troubled by an Achilles injury.

“Georgia is going to be a really tough game. We’re focused on all aspects of our game, but obviously there are key areas around the scrum and we’re looking forward to that challenge,” Mitchell said.