SKIPPER Sam Warburton has admitted nobody’s place is safe in this Wales side after Warren Gatland wielded the axe on one of the players of the tournament so far.

Ospreys forward Ryan Jones has been outstanding in the opening Six Nations wins over Ireland and Scotland, but that couldn’t prevent the Grand Slam-winning skipper from missing out on the starting XV for the Triple Crown clash with England at Twickenham on Saturday.

Jones makes way for regional team-mate Alun Wyn Jones, who has played just a game and a half of Pro12 rugby following his recovery from a serious toe injury.

Ryan Jones’s relegation to bench duty will be a surprise to many and Warburton admitted it was a decision that also raised a few eyebrows among the squad at their Vale of Glamorgan base.

“Ryan being left out of the starting line-up might have surprised a few players because he was playing very well, to be fair to him,” said the Blues flanker, himself restored to the side after missing the win over Scotland because of a dead leg.

“So I guess it will keep us on our toes, because no-one’s place is guaranteed now.

“That’s good in terms of the culture that we want.

“We don’t want players getting lethargic or complacent and thinking they are going to get picked.

“Even though Ryan’s being playing exceptionally well, it does send out a good message to the players.”

Alun Wyn Jones’s inclusion is one of three changes — all up front — to the line-up that started the 27-13 victory over the Scots.

As expected, Warburton replaces Aaron Shingler at openside, with Shingler dropping out of the matchday squad, while Scarlets hooker Ken Owens is poised for his first Test start after both Huw Bennett and Matthew Rees were ruled out with calf injuries.

Ospreys duo Justin Tipuric and Richard Hibbard come onto the bench.