Ashton comeback is stalled by calf injury

England wing Chris Ashton has been ruled out of Saturday’s climax to the autumn series against Australia by a calf problem.

Ashton picked up the injury in the 35-15 victory over Japan at Twickenham with a scan confirming that he will be sidelined for a fortnight.

The 31-year-old became available for England again when he left Toulon for Sale over the summer and coach Eddie Jones immediately selected him in his squad.

When Manu Tuilagi was ruled out of the opener against South Africa because of a groin strain, Ashton was cleared to win his 40th cap and first in over four years.

Forwards coach Steve Borthwick said: “Chris Ashton has been scanned and, unfortunately, he will be out for a couple of weeks.

“Chris is a fantastic player who knows his way to the tryline. He’s been great around the squad the last few weeks. It’s very disappointing.”

Ashton fell out of favour under Stuart Lancaster and then Jones, whose opportunities to pick him were restricted by a series of bans.

He has played only once for Sale this season due to a seven-week ban for a tip-tackle.

Jonny May and Jack Nowell are set to be on the wings for the first time since the autumnseriesopeneragainst South Africa.