The 2005 Lion was in imperious form for his club throughout last season but a disappointing summer tour to New Zealand has led many to question whether he still has an international future ahead of him.

Hodgson, who currently has 31 England caps and 253 points to his name, was dropped from the England reckoning after he was singled out for criticism following a poor defensive display against the All Blacks.

"Long term, of course, I'm still ambitious to play for England again," said Hodgson.

"I think people tend to forget I'm only 27, whereas some critics have been writing me off as if I'm 35 or something.

"This is my ninth season for Sale so I have been around a bit. But I'm still young and I feel I've got a good few years in me."