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England on Cipriani’s mind

2012-08-18 09:37:01

Former Wasps and Rebels fly-half Danny Cipriani is hoping a good season with Sale will earn him a recall to the England squad

The 24-year-old has returned to the Aviva Premiership after two seasons with the Melbourne Rebels, and is focused on producing for his new club and returning to the international scene.

“I learned a lot in Australia and I am ambitious to play for England again,” said the fly-half.

“I am excited to be playing in the Premiership again and I have a role and responsibility at Sale.”

Cipriani has not played for England since 2008 following a spate of injuries and a personality clash with former coach Martin Johnson.

Johnson has been succeeded by Stuart Lancaster but Cipriani has denied he has only returned to England because Johnson is gone.

“I had always intended to return here after two years,” Cipriani said.

“I had the possibility of one more year (with the Rebels), but after weighing things up decided to return.

“Sale are an ambitious club and it is really enjoyable here.

“I have spoken to Stuart Lancaster and being involved in the 2015 World Cup is a long-term goal but I have to focus on this season.”

He added: “I am glad I went to Australia because they do things differently there and I want to impose some of the things I learned there, not just in attack.

“It is about how they understand the game and focus on little details.”