England boosted by Alex Mitchell’s return to fitness ahead of Ireland clash

England’s first choice scrum-half has now been added to the 36-man squad that is in Girona preparing for the match.

Alex Mitchell has been passed fit to face Ireland. Picture: Zac Goodwin/PA

England’s prospects of causing an upset against Ireland have improved after Alex Mitchell was cleared to take part in the Guinness Six Nations opener in Dublin.

Mitchell became a doubt for Saturday’s Aviva Stadium showdown after suffering a knee injury on European duty for Northampton against Munster on January 18.