Lancaster defends Farrell selection as England look to end losing streak

England head coach Stuart Lancaster defended his selection of Owen Farrell after the out-of-form half-back was moved to inside-centre for the QBE International against Samoa at Twickenham on Saturday.

George Ford was handed his first start at number 10, with Farrell moved inside as one of six changes to the team beaten by South Africa last week.

Farrell has come under fire for his performances this autumn, with some asking questions of his fitness, but he has survived another week and moves to the position he filled in the first two games of his international career in 2012, when he also partnered Brad Barritt in midfield.