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England keep faith with same side

Author: Brandon Barker
Date: 24/02/2010
Rugby Union betting

England have kept faith with the same side that scraped a narrow 17-12 Six Nations win over minnows Italy by naming an unchanged line-up for the weekend clash with Ireland at Twickenham.

That means under-pressure Jonny Wilkinson will continue in his fly-half role despite calls for him to be replaced.

Team manager Martin Johnson has drafted in flanker Joe Worsley, who has recovered from a knee injury, and he takes the place of Steffon Armitage.

Hooker Lee Mears replaces Steve Thompson and full-back Ben Foden comes in for prop Matt Mullan with all the changes restricted to the bench.

Will England get the better of Ireland in the Six Nations? - Latest Rugby Union betting

In cricket, Craig Kieswetter's inclusion in England's one-day squad was justified on Tuesday after he smashed a magnificent 143 on his debut against a Bangladesh Cricket Board XI in Fatullah.

The Johannesburg-born star's stunning knock helped his adopted country claim a fine 112-run victory in a 50-over showdown as the tourists finished on 370-7.

Paul Collingwood hit 109 and captain Alastair Cook notched 56 as England prepare for their three ODIs against Bangladesh, for which they have been installed as firm favourites in the online betting markets.

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini expects striker Carlos Tevez to return to England in time to feature in Saturday lunchtime's clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

The 26-year-old Argentinian has missed the Citizens' last three games after his wife gave birth to their second child prematurely, but is expected back in the country later this week.

Mancini told reporters: "I spoke with Carlos on Monday, and he will be back on Thursday or Friday morning.

"We want him back for Chelsea on Saturday and he told me that he has been training every day while he has been back in Argentina."

Tottenham Hotspur boss Harry Redknapp has confirmed that England winger Aaron Lennon has suffered a setback in his recovery from a groin injury.

The 22-year-old has not featured for Spurs since the turn of the year and has undergone an MRI scan to assess the latest damage.

Manchester United's Brazilian midfielder Anderson remains hopeful of securing a long-term future at Old Trafford, despite dropping out of the first-team picture in recent weeks.

The 21-year-old has not featured for the Red Devils for more than a month, amid rumours of a bust-up with manager Sir Alex Ferguson after Anderson returned home to South America.

"The conversations with Ferguson are private but I have explained my situation," Anderson commented. "I went to Brazil to think about my future and not to negotiate with other clubs.

"Some European clubs have asked about me but, as far as I am concerned, my future is still with United."

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