First five Jonny Wilkinson, who missed England’s opening clash
against the United States with ankle ligament damage, is still on the injured
list and was not named in the team to face South Africa at the Stade
de France.Olly Barkley, who wore the No 10 jersey in place of Wilkinson against the Eagles, was set to remain at pivot but a damaged hip flexor at training also has him in doubt for the match.
Captain Phil Vickery is suspended for two matches and backs Mathew Tait and Danny Hipkiss have both been in isolation with illness since the weekend.
Ashton has made a number of changes to the side which performed so poorly against USA, with former captain Lawrence Dallaglio, Joe Worsley and Mark Cueto left out and Jason Robinson switching to fullback.
Winger Paul Sackey and back rowers Martin Corry and Nick Easter have been named in the starting XV.
"I haven't had time to think about the options but I'm not banking on going to bed tonight," the coach told a news conference.
"If Olly's not fit and Jonny becomes fit...we don't know the nature of Olly's injuries and are not entirely certain where Jonny is in his rehabilitation."
Mike Catt is an option at first five, as is former rugby league star Andy Farrell but neither are accomplished kickers. There is also the option to fly out a replacement such as Toby Flood or Charlie Hodgson.
