David Wilson recalled to England starting XV with Dan Cole ruled out

England will insert the tighthead prop into the starting line-up beginning on Saturday against Ireland with Dan Cole out for the tournament.

David Wilson trains with England at Pennyhill Park on February 18, 2014. David Rogers / Getty Images
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England have recalled tighthead prop David Wilson and included uncapped outside-half George Ford on the bench for their Six Nations international against Ireland at Twickenham on Saturday.

Wilson went straight into the starting XV after Dan Cole was ruled out with a season-ending neck injury.

Meanwhile 20-year-old Bath playmaker Ford was included among the replacements instead of centre Brad Barritt to give England specialist cover for first-choice fly-half Owen Farrell.

“We have been forced into one change and we wish Dan Cole all the best for his recovery,” said England coach Stuart Lancaster after naming his side on Thursday.

“However, David Wilson is an experienced international with 31 caps and he showed in his three starts against Argentina last year what he can do.”

Turning to Ford, Lancaster added: “It’s great to have George involved. He has settled in well and we are confident in his ability should he get his opportunity from the bench.”

Saturday’s match will be England’s first at their Twickenham headquarters this Six Nations after they suffered a narrow 26-24 loss to France in Paris before overpowering Scotland 20-0 in Edinburgh last time out.

Ireland, who are due to announce their side later Thursday, will arrive in London eyeing a Grand Slam following comprehensive home wins over both Scotland (28-6) and defending champions Wales (26-3).

However, Ireland have lost their last three Tests against England.

England team announced to play Ireland:

England (15-1)

Mike Brown; Jack Nowell, Luther Burrell, Billy Twelvetrees, Jonny May; Owen Farrell, Danny Care; Billy Vunipola, Chris Robshaw (capt), Tom Wood; Courtney Lawes, Joe Launchbury; David Wilson, Dylan Hartley, Joe Marler

Replacements: Tom Youngs, Mako Vunipola, Henry Thomas, Dave Attwood, Ben Morgan, Lee Dickson, George Ford, Alex Goode