Ben Foden is set to make his first England Test start after fellow fullback Delon Armitage was dropped on Tuesday from the squad to play France in the Six Nations finale in Paris on Saturday.

Armitage's departure from the England squad ahead of Wednesday's team announcement by manager Martin Johnson saw the fullback pay the price for a slump in form which continued during last weekend's 15-15 draw away to Scotland at Murrayfield - a match where neither side managed a single try.

Also out of contention for the Stade de France clash against Grand Slam chasing France is wing Ugo Monye who suffered a neck injury in Saturday's Calcutta Cup draw.

England also have injury concerns over captain Steve Borthwick (knee) and fly-half Jonny Wilkinson, who sustained a couple of heavy blows to the head at Murrayfield but the duo remain with the squad.

In all 11 players have been released back to their clubs. That effectively leaves Johnson with a matchday 22, although England's 2003 World Cup winning captain has still to unveil his starting XV and seven replacements.

Foden, who has made three Test appearances off the bench, is widely regarded as the kind of player who could inject some much needed sharpness into England's misfiring attack.

He could be joined by Northampton colleague Chris Ashton, a former rugby league player, who will be in contention to fill the wing berth vacated by Monye.

And even if Wilkinson is fit, his place could be taken by Toby Flood.

Meanwhile, World Cup winning centre Mike Tindall, who has only recently returned from injury, could make a dramatic return to the side in a bid to stiffen an England back division sure to be tested by the pace and power of giant French midfielder Mathieu Bastareaud.

Up front, flanker Lewis Moody is challenging for a recall while veteran lock Simon Shaw is set for a starting spot after recovering from a shoulder injury.

"It is not about chopping and changing on a whim because that doesn't do anyone any good," said Johnson.

"We have got to pick a team to win every individual game."

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