UPDATE 2-Rugby-Veteran Bell back for injury-hit England

Wed Nov 11, 2009 1:37pm GMT
 
Email | Print | | Single Page
[-] Text [+]

* Bell recalled as injuries bite

* Johnson desperate to avoid second defeat

* Hodgson gets first start as scrum half (Adds quotes)

LONDON, Nov 11 (Reuters) - England team manager Martin Johnson has made four changes to his side for Saturday's international against Argentina at Twickenham.

Injuries have hit Johnson's forward options and veteran prop Duncan Bell will make his first start for England in a test since 2005, replacing David Wilson who suffered neck and shoulder injuries in last week's defeat by Australia.

James Haskell is selected at number eight in place of the injured Jordan Crane, one of 10 players released back to their clubs this week, while Northampton's Dylan Hartley replaces Steve Thompson at hooker.

Johnson, who is without a dozen leading players through injury including his first-choice front row, has made just one change in the backs with London Irish scrum half Paul Hodgson given his first start in place of Danny Care.

"With Paul and Danny there is an argument to who starts and who is on the bench," Johnson told reporters on Wednesday. "I said to Danny he's not dropped and he will have a chance to come off the bench but it's an opportunity for Paul because he's been a fantastic guy to have around for the past two weeks."

Argentina, who beat England at Twickenham three years ago, have built their reputation on scrummaging and Johnson said his unfamiliar pack would have to rise to the challenge.  Continued...

 

Most Popular General News on Reuters UK

  • Articles
  • Videos