England's Joe Marchant tests positive for Covid ahead of Six Nations opener against Scotland

England's preparations for the upcoming Six Nations tournament has been dealt another blow as Harlequins centre Joe Marchant was tested positive for Covid-19.

Marchant has been withdrawn from the squad with his isolation set to continue until later this week which makes him a doubtful starter for the Saturday’s Calcutta Cup clash.

England are already without the services of skipper Owen Farrell, who is ruled out of the tournament with a knee injury while Jonny May is set to miss at least the opening two rounds.

Northampton’s Tommy Freeman is also sidelined with a hamstring injury that he sustained during a training session while Joe Marler is currently isolating following a positive Covid test last week.

England coach Eddie Jones has added Harlequins' Louis Lynagh and Newcastle's Adam Radwan to the squad.

Courtney Lawes, who is expected to lead the side in the absence of Farrell is undergoing return to play protocols with Nick Isiekwe brought in as a cover.