Johnson led England to World Cup glory as a player in 2003

England will play Wales and Ireland in three warm-up games for the next year's Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

Manager Martin Johnson's side will host Wales at Twickenham on Saturday, 6 August before heading to Cardiff for a return match one week later.

On Saturday, 27 August, England take on Ireland in Dublin before departing to New Zealand the following week.

"These three games are an important element in our build-up and should be excellent contests," said Johnson.

The kick-off times for all three games are yet to be decided.

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England have been drawn in Pool B, alongside Scotland, Argentina and Georgia for the World Cup.

New Zealand open the tournament on Friday, 9 September with a Pool A game against Tonga, while England get their campaign under way the following day against the Pumas.

Wales are in Pool D along with holders South Africa, Fiji, Samoa and Namibia while Ireland are in Pool C and face Australia, Italy, Russia and the USA.

Meanwhile, Gloucester winger James Simpson-Daniel is one of three players called up by England to their elite squad as injury cover ahead of Saturday's Test against world champions South Africa.

Simpson-Daniel and Leicester centre Anthony Allen replace Wasps duo Dominic Waldouck and Riki Flutey, who are undergoing rehabilitation with their club.

Harlequins flanker Chris Robshaw has been called up as cover for a third Wasps man, Joe Worsley, who has a cheek injury.

England name their team for Saturday's meeting at Twickenham at 12 noon on Thursday.

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