Tuilagi won’t be rushed back for Ireland clash

England coach Stuart Lancaster is wary of rushing Manu Tuilagi’s rehabilitation after the Leicester centre was ruled out of Saturday’s RBS 6 Nations opener against Scotland.

Tuilagi will miss the clash at Twickenham with an ankle injury.

The explosive 21-year-old is expected to resume full training by the middle of next week and has a chance of returning against Ireland on February 10.

Lancaster, who has already decided who will partner Brad Barritt in the centres for the Calcutta Cup showdown, is refusing to take any shortcuts in the recovery of his most dangerous player.

“Manu has a high ankle sprain which is one of those injuries that can settle quickly, or take longer,” he said.

“We want to make sure Manu is right and doesn’t rush back and break down again. It’s one of those injuries that can go again.

“It’s taken until now to get him to run in a straight line. One of Manu’s strengths is changing direction and we want to make sure he can do that without suffering a recurrence.”

Lancaster will announce on Thursday whether the inexperienced Billy Twelvetrees or Jonathan Joseph will partner Barritt with fly-halves Toby Flood or Owen Farrell also possibilities.

“I’m not sure there is a like for like replacement for Manu. All options are open.”

Lancaster confirmed that prop Corbisiero will miss the entire Six Nations following knee surgery.