Steve Borthwick has significantly reshuffled his England team, making six changes to the starting XV for the final Autumn Nations Series Test against Argentina this Sunday.
Key Changes and Returning Stars
The most notable inclusion is Elliot Daly, who is set to make his first appearance for club or country since breaking his arm during the British & Irish Lions tour of Australia in June. The 33-year-old Saracens back, cleared by a specialist last week, will start on the left wing.
He is joined by Henry Slade, who gets his chance at centre following a hamstring injury to Ollie Lawrence. Ben Spencer takes over from Alex Mitchell at scrum-half, while young prop Asher Opoku-Fordjour replaces Joe Heyes in the front row.
From the bench, Ellis Genge and Luke Cowan-Dickie are promoted to the starting lineup. The unavailability of Jamie George gives his Saracens teammate Theo Dan a spot on the bench, with Bath's Charlie Ewels also returning to the matchday 23.
Injury Crisis Forces Borthwick's Hand
The England head coach confirmed that his selection was partly dictated by injuries to key players. Alongside Lawrence, Tom Roebuck and Tommy Freeman are also unavailable, creating opportunities for others in the squad.
This has allowed Daly his long-awaited return to the international stage after a five-month absence due to his serious arm injury sustained against the Queensland Reds.
Building on All Blacks Victory
England enter this match on the back of an impressive 33-19 victory over New Zealand last weekend. Borthwick's side will be looking to register their 11th successive Test victory against an Argentine team known for their physicality.
"Last weekend gave us plenty to build on, and now the challenge is to push our performance further," said Borthwick. "Argentina play with emotion and physicality, and they've shown they can beat the best in world rugby this year."
The coach also acknowledged the importance of home support, adding: "We have felt exceptional support at Allianz Stadium throughout this series. It provides a real lift for the players, and we hope to create lasting memories for our supporters on Sunday."
England team to face Argentina: Steward; Feyi-Waboso, Slade, Dingwall, Daly; Ford, Spencer; Genge, Cowan-Dickie, Opoku-Fordjour, Itoje (capt), Coles, Pepper, Underhill, Earl.
Replacements: Dan, Baxter, Stuart, Ewels, Curry, Pollock, Mitchell, M Smith.
