The absence of James Ryan from the squad against England is down to a "freak injury" sustained in training, Andy Farrell has said. He also added that Ryan isn't expected to return before Ireland's final match against Scotland.
Leinster co-captain Ryan has been a key player off the bench for Ireland so far this Six Nations, with Leinster teammate Joe McCarthy and Munster's Tadhg Beirne being the first choice pairing in the second row.
In his absence Ulster stalwart Iain Henderson goes to the bench. With 80 caps to his name, Henderson's experience in high pressure scenarios will be crucial as Ireland look to get their fifth win in a row against England.
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James Ryan to miss remainder of Six Nations due to injury
Speaking at the team announcement press conference, Head Coach Andy Farrell explained the reason for James Ryan's absence and the accident with lead to his dropping.
"He's injured, he got injured yesterday in training, just a freak accident really, just a reaction, reaching out for a tackle that was non-contact and he's injured his bicep.
"He won't be available for the remainder of the Six Nations."
James Ryan's fellow Leinster co-captain Garry Ringrose also missed out on the squad, having just returned to training after a shoulder issue kept him out of the Six Nations up to now.
Meanwhile Hugo Keenan makes a return to the starting team after missing out on the Wales match through a knee injury. The man who deputised for him that day Ciaran Frawley goes to the bench as Farrell chose to go with a 6/2 split on the bench, looking to match up England physically. The split has worked well on both occasions against France and Wales where a dominant final quarter saw Ireland earn bonus points.
Another bonus point win this weekend will see Ireland wrap up the Six Nations Championship before their final match at home to Scotland on March 16th.
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