England suffer Chris Ashton blow ahead of Wallabies clash

Sale Sharks winger Chris Ashton will miss England's final autumn international clash against Australia at Twickenham Stadium on Saturday following a calf injury.

Ashton, who made his England comeback after a gap of four years suffered the blow during last weekend's game against Japan where he was replaced in the 33rd minute by Henry Slade.

England forwards coach Steve Borthwick expressed disappointment on the news but believes Ashton's absence will give an opportunity for another player to impress the team management.

“Chris is a fantastic player that knows his way to the try line,” said Borthwick.

“He has been great around the squad these last few weeks so it is very disappointing, but it always gives opportunity to other players, and we have a lot of good players in that area.”

Borthwick also praised Bath's Joe Cokanasiga, who marked his international debut with a try against Japan that led him to fan’s man of the match award.

“I think he did really well,” explained Borthwick of the winger’s debut.

“I think he is a guy with massive potential and he is really eager to learn. Physically he has some great attributes. He is a young guy with a lot of potential.”

The game on Saturday will also be the 50th Test between these two teams with England winning 23 out of it while Australia managed to emerge victorious on 25 occasions.