Francis on standby for another call from Eddie

FIT-AGAIN centre Piers Francis has vowed not to become one of England’s forgotten men by spearheading Northampton’s charge for the play-offs.

Last capped against South Africa eight months ago, Francis was involved in England’s autumn squad but dislocated a shoulder against Exeter in late December, meaning that, along with Saracens’ Alex Lozowski, he has played no part in the Six Nations.

While Henry Slade, Manu Tuilagi and Ben Te’o are England’s current midfielders of choice, Francis said: “I’d like to think I’ve still got the attributes Eddie Jones is looking for and I back myself to break back in, given the chance.

“The shoulder injury was unfortunate timing with the naming of the Six Nations squad but the idea was to get back as soon as I could, which I did against Sale last week, and now I want to keep proving myself by backing up good performances.”

Francis added: “England have been going very well and it’s a big year. Eddie’s not been in touch since my injury and he’s got a pretty settled 23, but it’s a constant motivation of mine to keep putting in good performances so he can see how I’m doing.”

Having scored 48 tries in five matches prior to yesterday’s clash with Bath, Northampton’s attack has been on fire – due reward for the attacking mentality under former Hurricanes boss Chris Boyd.

Francis, who developed his career in Super Rugby with Auckland Blues, said: “Whether it’s a Super Rugby style or not, it’s a simple recognition of space and us having the confidence to take it.

“There’s risk if you’re shifting the ball out of your own half but if there is space, you should have the skills to exploit it and that’s what we’re doing. There’s a lot of clarity across the team now with what each individual is doing and what’s expected of us.”

Having made a doublequick recovery from injury, Francis explained: “Dislocated shoulders can be problematical but I made a decision not to go under the knife, which would have meant a longer return time and ruined my season.

“Instead, I’ve rehabbed it to a good state and it’s felt very strong, so hopefully I can get a run of games now, ride any knocks and press my England case again.”