England rugby taking no risks with Brown

England have handed Mike Brown two days complete rest in a bid to ensure their first-choice fullback can face Ireland in a potential RBS 6 Nations decider in Dublin.

Brown was removed by stretcher in the early stages of England’s 47-17 victory over Italy at Twickenham on Saturday, but watched the majority of the second-half from the touchline.

Head coach Stuart Lancaster had said Brown was “frustrated” to miss the brunt of the Italy clash after a blow to the head on Saturday (Sunday AEDT) but England are taking no chances.

Brown will continue to observe the return-to-play concussion protocols this week, as England start preparations to face Ireland in Dublin on March 1.

England medics were due to assess the full squad on Monday night before returning to training on Tuesday.

“We’ll review the Italy game in the morning followed by training and we will then release a number of players back to their clubs in the evening ahead of the Aviva Premiership this coming weekend,” said England boss Lancaster.

“We will then train on Wednesday and Thursday before we come back into camp on Monday.

“Mike Brown has been given two days complete rest and will be re-assessed this evening as part of the graduated return to play protocol.”

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