Chris Ashton answers Johnson call
Saints flyer Chris Ashton is aiming to pull England out of the doldrums with his blistering try-scoring form on Saturday night.
England boss Martin Johnson finally bit the bullet yesterday and will give the Guinness Premiership's hottest property his Test debut against France in the final Six Nations game.
And Ashton will be joined in the England back three by team-mate Ben Foden as Johnson looks to add some Saints sparkle to his faltering side.
England have scored just two tries in their last three games and the 15-15 bore draw against Scotland has finally persuaded Johnson to call up Ashton, who is the Premiership's leading try-scorer with 12 tries in 14 games.
Ashton, who has played just 23 Premiership games after switching codes three years ago, is aiming to carry on that try-scoring form for England.
"Hopefully Ben and I can do what we do at Northampton, bring that into the team and create some tries," said Ashton.
"If anyone makes a break I will get there as fast as I can, providing there is a try in it I will get there!"
Ashton came into his second year in the top flight with Saints wondering if he still had a future in the 15-man game following his move to Franklin's Gardens from Super League giants Wigan.
After a record-breaking first season in National League One saw him run in 41 tries, Ashton struggled in his first season in the Premiership, scoring just one league try, and was dropped.
But the time out allowed him to learn the nuts and bolts of the union game, and he has been in blistering form this season, scoring 19 tries. Ashton turns 23 in 11 days and he admits his rapid rise this season has taken him by surprise.
"I didn't even think I would get this chance so I am taking every opportunity that comes my way," said Ashton. "It has been a massive learning curve for me this year. To come into the England camp and learn off the players around me is what I have waited for."
Full story in Thursday's Chronicle & Echo
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Friday 10 February 2012
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