Six Nations 2014: Impact man Ben Morgan can fill the huge gap left by Billy Vunipola

Stuart Lancaster today admitted Billy Vunipola’s absence for the rest of the Six Nations was a “big loss” but the England head coach is confident Ben Morgan will fill the void.

The Saracens No8 damaged his ankle in the 13-10 win over Ireland, although Lancaster insists Vunipola does not need surgery

Gloucester’s Morgan will take over from England’s outstanding ball carrier against Wales at Twickenham on March 9 and the 18-cap international could keep his place for England’s final Six Nations match of this season against Italy six days later.

“Billy is still very young in international terms but has shown fantastic potential and a great work ethic,” said Lancaster.

“He is going to be a big loss because he gives us a lot of go forward ball. I don’t believe Billy will need surgery and is due to be back in mid-April.

“However, Ben is a dead cert like‑for-like replacement and has the ability to achieve the same kind of ball handling impact. Ben’s form picked up after the autumn internationals and went back to his club and worked really hard. He has continued that work in the gym and is in good shape. He has made a real impact off the bench for us.”

Lancaster has lost two key players in tight-head prop Dan Cole and Vunipola during the championship from a squad already missing Lions players such as Manu Tuilagi, Alex Corbisiero and Tom Croft.

Tuilagi, who suffered a chest injury in September, will feature for Leicester this weekend while wing Marland Yarde is expected to start for London Irish after his hip injury.