Itoje in frame to take Robshaw’s back row slot for Australia Test

Maro Itoje is under consideration to depose Chris Robshaw from England’s back row for Saturday’s opening Test against Australia.

Itoje was given Robshaw’s place at blindside flanker during Monday’s training session and it is understood that head coach Eddie Jones has deliberated over the positional switch.

It would give the back row an injection of dynamism with his power, athleticism and ability over the ball the features of a stellar season littered with man-of-the-match awards and headlined by Aviva Premiership and Champions Cup winners medals.