Coach Stuart Lancaster has let 13 players go from his squad that is due to take on Australia at Twickenham on Saturday afternoon.

Harlequins flyer Ugo Monye is among those to have been released, which means that Chris Ashton is likely to go straight back into the starting lineup following a one-match suspension.

The London Irish duo of Alex Corbisiero and Jonathan Joseph have also been sent back to their club.

"We had to make some tough decisions within the 23 and we are in a good position to be able to select from a largely fit squad," said Lancaster.

"Training has been very focused during the last two days with all the players training well and pushing hard. Alex Corbisiero has played once in five months so it is important that he goes back and has more game time for London Irish.
Jonathan Joseph has come through training but Brad and Manu did well in the centres and, similar to Alex, it would be good for him to get some game time.

"It is tough on Ugo, who misses out this time, but Chris Ashton has been excellent in training and Charlie is rewarded for his performance at the weekend."

The released players:

Anthony Allen (Leicester Tigers), Mouritz Botha (Saracens), Freddie Burns (Gloucester Rugby), Alex Corbisiero (London Irish), Lee Dickson (Northampton Saints), Phil Dowson (Northampton Saints), James Haskell (London Wasps), Jonathan Joseph (London Irish), Courtney Lawes (Northampton Saints), Ugo Monye (Harlequins), Ben Morgan (Gloucester Rugby), George Robson (Harlequins), Billy Twelvetrees (Gloucester Rugby)

Written by
Liam Apicella