Toby Flood will start at centre for England's World Cup quarter-final against France on Saturday, alongside Jonny Wilkinson at fly-half.
Flood last played in that position for England in their Six Nations victory over Wales at Twickenham in February 2010.
Nick Easter is given the number eight position in place of James Haskell, and Tom Palmer is preferred over Courtney Lawes at lock.
Meanwhile, Mark Cueto is given a starting role on the left wing in place of the suspended Delon Armitage.
England team to play France: Foden; Ashton, Tuilagi, Flood, Cueto, Wilkinson, Youngs; Stevens, Thompson, Cole, Deacon, Palmer, Croft, Moody, Easter