Six Nations 2018: Don Armand ready to play where he’s needed but may have to wait to get his hands on Ireland

Exeter Chiefs flanker has been recalled to the England squad after an injury-crisis hit Eddie Jones' squad ahead of their final game against the new champions

Don Armand could make his second appearance for England against Ireland this Saturday (Getty)

Don Armand is poised to enter Saturday's final round of the Six Nations as number eight cover for Exeter colleague Sam Simmonds as England come to terms with a back-row injury crisis.

Nathan Hughes and Courtney Lawes have been ruled out of the clash with Ireland at Twickenham by knee injuries sustained in the 22-16 defeat by France, resulting in Armand's recall to the squad with Billy Vunipola, Sam Underhill, Tom Curry and Zach Mercer already missing.

Eddie Jones previously held reservations over Armand's carrying and work-rate and having given him his debut as a replacement against Argentina last June, has overlooked him ever since despite repeated calls for his inclusion.

As one of Exeter's most consistent performers, Armand's exclusion has been questioned but circumstances have conspired to offer him a route back at number eight - the position Jones has identified for him.

"We took Don to Argentina. He's a good solid player, who keeps on playing well for Exeter," Jones said.

"We've got a few injuries in that number eight spot so we're relying on Simmonds and need another back-up in that area."

It is a clear indication that Simmonds will take over from Hughes in the back row despite making little impact when he came on against France, with James Haskell most likely covering for Lawes.

Armand has played most of his rugby this season at either six or seven, but the 29-year-old insists he is also at home at eight.

"I'm comfortable with that. I still play a similar role to the one I normally play. Whatever role it is I'm needed for, I am happy to try and fulfil," Armand said.

"I have played mostly six and seven. I've had a few games at eight, obviously when Sam comes up to England and there's an injury or something like that.

"I've had a fair bit of experience in all three positions. I think I've had two games at eight so far this season. My role is wherever it needs to be."

France meanwhile have escaped a citing for an alleged biting incident involving Maro Itoje that took place in the second half of last Saturday's win over England.

Itoje demonstrated to referee Jaco Peyper after claiming to have been bitten by an opponent and showed the South African official a mark on his left arm.

England raised the matter with the citing officer Murray Whyte, but no France player will face a disciplinary hearing with the 48-hour deadline for action to be taken having elapsed.

"We've got someone who looks at that for us and went to see the citing commissioner and he'll deal with it. I'm not really here to talk about biting," Jones said of the incident.

PA