Jones backs Ashton to catch France cold

Eddie Jones thinks England wing Chris Ashton can catch France cold when he makes a long-awaited Six Nations start at Twickenham on Sunday.

Ashton will make his first start in the competition for six years after getting the nod over Jack Nowell.

Les Bleus will know all about Ashton’s finishing prowess, as the Sale Sharks flyer broke the Top 14 try-scoring record in his only season with Toulon last year.

England head coach Jones is backing the 31-year-old to make an early impact as England aim to make it two wins out of two following a hugely impressive triumph over Ireland in Dublin.

“We have gone for Chris Ashton on the wing because we think he might sneak us a try early in the game,” said Jones.

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“We’ve just got a gut feeling he’ll be right for the start and Jack will be right for the end.

“Jack was absolutely outstanding for us against Ireland, absolutely outstanding, so it’s just a different role for him this time.

“He’s got a great work-rate and can fill a number of positions. At the end of the game that work-rate is going to be important.”

Courtney Lawes replaces the injured Maro Itoje at lock in the only other change to the side.

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