England handed blow ahead of Six Nations opener against Scotland as Joe Marchant tests positive for Covid-19

ENGLAND have been handed a Six Nations blow for their opener against Scotland with utility back Joe Marchant testing positive for Covid-19.

The Harlequins ace tested positive on Friday and will for the start of the training week at England‘s base in Surrey.

GETTY IMAGESMarchant is isolating with Covid[/caption]

Marchant, who can play at outside centre and wing, was set to play a part in the Calcutta Cup against Scotland on February 5.

And the latest news piles more pressure on boss Eddie Jones, who is already dealing with a number of injuries to key players.

Despite the squad headache, Jones has warned Scotland his England squad are ‘coming for them.’

History, however, says otherwise.

England have lost three of their last four Calcutta Cup meetings.

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A fiery Jones said: “Everyone knows the history between the two countries and we know every time Scotland play England it is their biggest game of the tournament.

“The big difference this year is we are going up there to get them. We are going after them and so they are going to have to be pretty good.

“We know they are a good team. The bulk of their players played for the Lions that was picked by Gregor Townsend, and that reflected their standard in the autumn.

“We know what it takes up there. Last time it was wet, cold and miserable and the field can be very slippery and slidey.

“A lot of it is about the mindset and the way you approach the game. You’ve got to start well, get into the game and go after them.”