Press Association

Hodgson called up as Wilkinson cover

Sale fly-half Charlie Hodgson has been drafted into the England squad ahead of the final RBS 6 Nations appointment against France as precautionary injury cover for Jonny Wilkinson.

Wilkinson suffered a blow to the head during England's 15-15 draw with Scotland last Saturday and had to be replaced early in the second half.

Hodgson, who last played for England on the ill-fated tour of New Zealand in 2008, was briefly drafted into the squad earlier in the tournament after Wilkinson complained of a thigh problem.

England's medics ran the rule over the squad on their return to their Pennyhill Park base today and were happy to report that Ugo Monye is making "good progress" after suffering a neck injury at Murrayfield.

England have also confirmed lock Simon Shaw, who missed the Scotland game with a shoulder injury, is expected to take part in full training this week ahead of the Paris clash.