Thursday 23 November 2017 17:07, UK
England head coach Eddie Jones says Saturday's Test against Samoa is a great opportunity to examine their strength in depth.
Jones has made nine changes for the Twickenham clash, which is live on Sky Sports Action from 2.30pm, including a first England start for Jamie George on his 20th international appearance.
Skipper Dylan Hartley and Mako Vunipola were unable to train with the team this week, with the latter dropping out of the matchday 23, but Jones believes their final autumn Test serves as ideal preparation for the 2019 World Cup.
"We want to play better this week and this is a great opportunity to show the depth in the squad and the depth of leadership," he said.
"During the World Cup we have a four-day turnaround so this is a fantastic dress rehearsal.
"We've just finished two tough games. Dylan did a reconditioning programme this week and hasn't been training with the team, Mako as well.
"What was George's reaction like? I don't think I've told him! He's found out by default.
"He's a good lad, Jamie. He has sat on the bench behind Dylan and now is his opportunity to start. Dylan has been very supportive of him, as Jamie has been when Dylan started."
As well as George, Exeter's Sam Simmonds makes his full debut against Samoa. Jones once questioned whether he was big enough to play at No 8 in international rugby but says he brings good balance to a back row that includes Maro Itoje and Chris Robshaw.
"We've got a pretty big No 6 and 7 so we can afford to have a smaller No 8," said Jones. "It's always the balance of the back row.
"He has applied himself well. He's a quiet boy, doesn't say much but works hard. He has a really impressive attitude."
Jones moved Robshaw to openside after Sam Underhill was ruled out due to injury but doesn't believe the change in position will impact on the Harlequin's performance.
"Robbo will play the way he does every week and that's absolutely selfless for the team, making his tackles, chasing balls, get back after the Samoans make a line break," Jones said.
"He won't change having a different number on his back."
Jones has also named a new-look midfield as Alex Lozowski replaces fellow Saracen Owen Farrell at inside centre, with Henry Slade at 13.
Slade wore the No 12 shirt in England's autumn opener against Argentina and Jones wants the Exeter playmaker to be comfortable playing in both centre positions at international level.
"Good skills, good decision-making, robustness in their play," said Jones of what he expects from the midfield pair.
"They're going to be playing against big, Samoan centres who like taking the ball forward and all have footwork.
"They're going to have to knuckle down, make their tackles and then make good decisions when we have the ball."
