MATTY ASHTON will start for England against France on Saturday in a late change to Brian McDermott’s squad.
The Warrington winger replaces Wigan youngster Zach Eckersley, who drops to the bench, in the only change from England’s 30-12 loss to Tonga last weekend.
England must beat France – who were thrashed 78-4 by Samoa in their opener – and do so convincingly, if they are to cling onto their slim hope of progressing from the group stages.
Speaking on Thursday morning, McDermott explained the decision to start Ashton was not due to Eckersley’s performance against Tonga, but that it would instead give him the chance to ‘look at a few people’.
“We’ve putt Matty Ashton on the wing and Zach Eckersley comes out of the 13,” said the England boss.
“I thought Zach was good [against Tonga]. He had a moment where he bobbled a ball on a high catch, but I was impressed with how he handled that.
“He carried it in tough positions for us and I was impressed.
“But I need to have a look at a few people, so Matty goes on the wing this week.”
