Flood backed to reclaim his England jersey

NEWCASTLE coach Micky Ward reckons fly-half Toby Flood can stamp his class on this season’s Premiership and fire his way back into England contention.

Flood, right, won the last of his 60 caps against New Zealand in 2013 before heading to France for a three-year stint with Toulouse, enabling Owen Farrell and George Ford to establish themselves as the first choice playmakers.

However, Ward said: “Toby’s only 31 so it’s never too late as far as England are concerned. Just going from the player I played with here before to where he is now, he’s a totally different character.

“He’s got a different mindset, he’s physically and mentally stronger and you can see that he’s oozing international class.

“I know England want to bring young people through but surely you pick your best people and if Toby’s doing that, why shouldn’t he have a crack?

“I’ve been pleased with what I’ve seen so far and if he starts the season well, he’ll make a strong case.” A three-time Premiership winner with Leicester, Flood’s influence on Newcastle is already being felt, with Ward adding: “He challenges people, he’s a seasoned campaigner and you can tell he’s been in good environments. His experience is shining through and he’s bringing things out of other lads. They’re stepping up their game to meet that challenge. He’s been excellent so far.”

Improving Newcastle have their best chance of a top six finish since stalwart ex-prop Ward was part of the side that last achieved it in 2002.

Now the club’s scrum coach, Ward is convinced they have the forward power to service a backline that, with Flood and French star Maxime Mermoz in tandem, has huge potential.

Ward said: “Year-on-year we’ve developed and everyone’s fitter, stronger and a year older so we’re aiming to do better than eighth.

“Mark Wilson’s been away with England and experienced what it takes to play Test rugby, so he’s bringing something back.

“He’s got to step up now, pull other people with him and tell them that this is the international level they must all aspire to.

“What Mark’s achieved gives all our players a boost and there are other good guys in our pack, like Will Welch, Calum Green and Sean Robinson, plus some of our front rowers, who could put their hands up for selection.”