FAITH IN FARRELL

Jones is unwavering in his support for skipper despite fitness doubt

- Alex Spink

OWEN FARRELL reclaimed the England captaincy after head coach Eddie Jones decided he is still the man to “drive the competitive spirit” of the team.

Farrell has played only five matches all season and none since requiring ankle surgery in November, so he will go into the Six Nations plainly undercooked.

Jones cited that as a reason for omitting both Manu Tuilagi and Sam Underhill from the 36-man squad he named yesterday.

But so highly does he prize what Farrell brings to the team environment that he has made him an exception ahead of England’s tournament opener away to Scotland on February 5.

“Every player is treated differently,” said Jones, above, who proved the point by again ignoring the white-hot claims of George Ford. “Selection comes down to a judgment.