Clark pushes his England claims

Northampton Saints Director of Rugby Jim Mallinder has backed Calum Clark for an England call-up, after the flank impressed in his side's Premiership bonus-point win over Newcastle Falcons.

"We want our players to play for England and Calum has worked so hard on his game," Mallinder said.

"I think [England coach] Stuart [Lancaster] will be having a serious look at him," he added.

Clark crossed for one of five Saints tries at Franklin's Gardens on Friday, Stephen Myler, George Pisi, a penalty score and Luther Burrell the other names on the scoresheet.

Newcastle Falcons scored four tries of their own - through Chris Harris, George McGuigan, Alex Tait and Richard Mayhew.

However, Mallinder's troops were not to be denied.

Clark was called up by England for the year-end internationals in November, but did not get the chance to make his Red Rose debut over the four games.

But this year's Six Nations presents a new opportunity and it could be Clark's time to shine according to his Director of Rugby.

"Calum has been immense for us over the last few weeks," he said.

"His handling has particularly improved this year. We want our players to play for England and Calum has worked so hard on his game, I think Stuart will be having a serious look at him."

* Mallinder also paid tribute to flyhalf Myler, whose 17 points saw him become only the second player to reach 2,000 points for Northampton, the other being Paul Grayson.

"He has been here longer than me and is still playing well and kicking goals," said Mallinder.

"To achieve that milestone is phenomenal. A lot of our good play is through Stephen, he doesn't get the headlines but he is the main man that our attacking play comes through."

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