Six Nations 2014: England v Wales - Tom Johnson set for international recall as he replaces injured Billy Vunipola

Johnson has been named in the 23-man squad for Sunday's Twickenham clash with Wales and is likely to be named on the bench

Duncan Bech
Thursday 06 March 2014 10:03 GMT
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England flanker Tom Johnson will return to the international scene after being named in the squad to face Wales
England flanker Tom Johnson will return to the international scene after being named in the squad to face Wales

England flanker Tom Johnson is poised to win his sixth cap on Sunday after being named in the matchday squad for Sunday's RBS Six Nations clash with Wales.

The Exeter forward has been included in the 23 for the title showdown with Warren Gatland's champions and will feature among the replacements when the team is announced on Friday morning.

A back-row vacancy was created when number eight Billy Vunipola was ruled out of the remainder of the Six Nations with an ankle injury sustained in the 13-10 victory over Ireland.

Ben Morgan will take Vunipola's place in the starting XV with Johnson supplying cover from the bench.

"Tom Johnson has trained with us throughout the Six Nations and we are looking forward to his contribution," England head coach Stuart Lancaster said.

"The performance against Ireland has given us a lot of confidence going into this game against a high quality Welsh team.

"We feel it's right to give the bulk of that 23 another opportunity."

Manu Tuilagi will continue to train with England as his club Leicester are not involved in LV= Cup action this weekend, but will not participate against Wales.

The Red Rose will enter the final weekend of the Six Nations with a shot at the title if they dispose of Wales with points difference likely to be the deciding factor.

Centre Billy Twelvetrees insists they have the expectation they will prevail over the champions on home soil.

"Twickenham is the home of English rugby and it means so much to all the boys," Twelvetrees said.

"The Twickenham factor always give you an extra per cent. I can't put a number on it, but it gives you that extra belief and extra bit of energy when you are blowing."

PA

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