Mark Wilson has dropped to the bench for England's Six Nations match against Italy.

The 29-year-old, who started his rugby career at Penrith Rugby Club, had started England's first three matches in this year's championships.

But the Newcastle Falcons flanker drops to the bench in one of five changes to Eddie Jones' starting line-up after the 21-13 defeat in Wales last time out.

"We have had a good preparation ahead of Italy with a great week in Oxford where we competed against Georgia for two days," head coach Jones told England Rugby's website ahead of Saturday's game at Twickenham (4.15pm kick-off).

"Players have had a good break and have come back into camp re-energised and re-focused for what is an important game for us."

The Italians are yet to pick up a point, falling to losses to Scotland, Wales and Ireland.

Jones added: "Italy is a bit of an unknown quantity but, when Conor [O'Shea, coach] allows them to play rugby, they play well.

"They have played terrific games in the Six Nations. They are fitter, physically stay in the contest a lot longer and they are quite unpredictable in the way they attack.

"We expect Italy to throw the ball around a bit so we are going to have to defend very well against their unpredictability and when we have got the ball, we have to use it wisely."

The changes see Joe Cokanasiga make his first Six Nations start as he replaces Jack Nowell, who has a shoulder injury, on the right wing.

Elsewhere Ben Te'o partners Manu Tuilagi in the midfield, while up front there are starts for Ellis Genge, Joe Launchbury and Brad Shields.

Kendal-born Wilson has earned 11 international caps so far during his career.