England head coach Stuart Lancaster has said that the squad he has selected for the Italy match in the Six Nations shows how much competition there is for places in the side.

Lancaster made five changes to his squad from the game against France, with Mako Vunipola given his first start after impressing as an impact replacement in recent games.

"We were very happy with the way we finished the France game," Lancaster said. "The impact the replacements made shows that we have competition for places across the board and we have had to make some tight calls.

"Italy will be highly motivated for this game and we will have to perform for the full 80 minutes. I am sure those starting will seize their chance and the bench will also have a significant part to play as the game goes on."

England currently top the table with two games left to play.