England have been hit with the news that full-back Mike Brown is unlikely to play against Ireland in the Six Nations this weekend, following a setback in his recovery from concussion.

Brown was knocked unconscious during England's 47-17 win over Italy last week and won't be able to train until Friday, just two days before the clash in Dublin.

Head coach Stuart Lancaster admitted that Brown showed symptoms of concussion last Friday and, although he could feature in the match, he would like his chosen team to train together this week.

He told BBC Sport: "The first decision will be whether he is medically fit and able to play in the game, and we will make that decision via the protocol.We do need to get some consistency and continuity in the team during the course of Tuesday and Wednesday, but we will wait and see."

It is expected that Saracens' Alex Goode will replace Brown.