Hipkiss has won six England caps (Getty Images)

Dan Hipkiss is desperate to make the most of his late call-up to the England squad for the tour of New Zealand.

The Leicester Tigers centre, 25, is a replacement for injured Wasps fly-half Danny Cipriani who has had to pull out with a serious ankle injury.

And Hipkiss told BBC Radio Leicester: "It's not the best way to get picked but it's an opportunity for me.

"I'm aware of the pecking order but can't let that get me down. I have to work hard in training and impress."

Hipkiss has played a key role in Leicester's return to form towards the end of the season and is relishing the chance to test himself against the All Blacks when the tour gets underway next month.

It's tough for Danny but I've got to get my head down and get a place in the side Dan Hipkiss

"It's as tough as it gets," Hipkiss explained. "But you expect it to be tough. They have an incredible pool of players to call on."

And Hipkiss says he must ignore the fact he was overlooked for the original touring party and just do all he can to win a place in the side.

"You're always disappointed when you are not named in a squad but you have to trust the opinion of the coaches," Hipkiss said.

"And having played with Johnno (England manager Martin Johnson) then you wouldn't really question him.

"If he tells you other players are playing better than you then you've got to believe him.

"It's tough for Danny but I've got to get my head down and try to get a place in the side."