Jared Payne remains a doubt for Ireland's Six Nations clash with England at Twickenham on Saturday.

The centre did not train with the squad today as a result of his hamstring injury, but he did complete most of yesterday's work-out and will be given a fitness test before Thursday's training session.

The Irish management say they are "hopeful" that the player will be available for this weekend.

"Today he was doing a bit of work with physios. He’ll continue that work and we’ll give him until Thursday to prove his fitness," said defence coach Simon Easterby.