Jones: England won't take risk with Lawes' health

Eddie Jones insists Courtney Lawes' health is the number one priority after indicating that his preferred choice as England captain will play no part in their campaign this month.

Lawes has made only one appearance this season because of the concussion sustained in Northampton’s defeat by Leicester on September 24, resulting in Owen Farrell being reappointed skipper for the 30-29 loss to Argentina.

But with the veteran Lions flanker still symptomatic as he progresses through the return to play protocols, Jones has all but ruled him out of the remaining Autumn Nations Series fixtures against Japan, New Zealand and South Africa.

Even if Lawes makes a rapid recovery over the coming days, a player who has a history of concussion – including a six-week spell out earlier this year – has only 49 minutes of rugby in the bank for 2022-23.

"There’s no movement with Courtney at the moment," England head coach Jones said.

"Initially I kept in touch with Courtney but given that he needs some rest now rather than feeling like he has to rush to come back, we are allowing it to take its natural course.

"We are in communication with his medical staff but we are letting him rest and come back. We’re hopeful that he will be back for the Six Nations and ready to go.

"I’m worried about his health at this time – that he gets back to 100 per cent health. But these things have a natural course – some heal quicker than others.

"If it takes a little bit of time, the most important thing is his health and he’ll get back to playing rugby when he’s ready."

With Lawes out, Farrell will continue to lead England as they plot their recovery from their first loss to Argentina since 2009.

Jones has taken responsibility for a flat display lacking in intensity,