Jack Nowell has replaced Jonny May in England's 26-man squad ahead of Sunday's crunch Six Nations meeting against Ireland at the Aviva Stadium.

The Exeter Chiefs wing, who featured in five matches during last year's tournament, will be in a bouyant mood having helped his club side to a 32-21 victory over Harlequins at the weekend.

Meanwhile, Chris Pennell - a part of the England fold for the first time since last June - and Alex Goode will remain in the camp as cover for Mike Brown who is battling towards a return to full fitness, with the latter of the duo a member of the Red Rose squad that beat Ireland 12-6 in Dublin two years ago.

Speaking to the official website of the RFU, head coach Stuart Lancaster said: "Preparation has gone well and we've had a good build-up so far. The guys who played against Wales and Italy did really well and the good thing is that others who are now fit and training are pushing hard for selection.

"We've had to make some tough decisions but it's a good position to be in and those players going back to their clubs have another big weekend ahead to lay down a marker for later in the tournament.

"Chris Pennell is in camp for the first time since last summer so we are taking this opportunity for him to spend some additional time with us."

England currently top the Six Nations standings with two games played, sitting level on points with Ireland who occupy second place.