Foden has just one cap for England, won against Italy

Northampton full-back Ben Foden admits he is 'livid' to have been overlooked by England for the autumn Tests.

The 24-year-old was in the elite player squad but did not make the team for any of the autumn internationals.

Foden told BBC Radio Northampton: "I'm pretty livid. I saw these [matches] as a massive opportunity for me, with Delon Armitage injured.

"There's been very little feedback from England. It's a tough decision for them at the top, sadly it didn't go my way."

Despite injuries to Armitage and Gloucester's Olly Morgan, the two specialist full-backs in the elite squad, manager Martin Johnson opted not to use the in-form Foden, despite his promotion from the second-string Saxons party.

Ugo Monye - who has filled in at full-back for Harlequins this season - was moved from his normal wing position to the number 15 jersey for the opening autumn Tests against Australia and Argentina.

But after a nightmare first half against the Pumas, he reverted to wing, with Mark Cueto moving to full-back, where he stayed against New Zealand.

"I like to take people on and run from my own line, and if England don't agree with that style of rugby, then I'm not their man," added Foden, who won his only cap against Italy in February.

"They sat me down and said they were going to pick the three in-form players in the Premiership.

"I thought that was a little harsh on me, as I thought I was playing pretty well.

"I'm not too worried. I've got time on my side and if I keep putting in the performances then it's just a matter of time and hopefully I'll force my way in."

But Foden said he was determined to keep enjoying his rugby with the Saints.

"I love coming back to Franklin's Gardens. We've got great staff here, coaching me to play a good style of free and flowing rugby," he said.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version