Lancaster may stick with Ashton for Paris duel

England head coach Stuart Lancaster insists Chris Ashton remains a wing option against France as he puts the finishing touches to selection for Saturday’s RBS 6 Nations opener.

Ashton’s 37 caps identify him as a serious contender for the Paris showdown — even though his form stagnated throughout the autumn – with injuries to Marland Yarde and Christian Wade making him all but a certain inclusion.

Lancaster has indicated he will be happy to pitch any two of rookie trio Jack Nowell, Jonny May or Anthony Watson into battle at the Stade de France if he deems them ready for such a critical match.