Stevens’ England hopes

2005 Lion Matt Stevens has his fingers crossed that a continuation of his fine form will be enough to book his place in England's World Cup squad. [more]

Stevens’ England hopes

2005 Lion Matt Stevens has his fingers crossed that a continuation of his fine form will be enough to book his place in England’s World Cup squad.

The Saracens prop returned from a two-year drugs ban in January and has put in several impressive performances.

"The only thing I can do is play well for Saracens. We're on a roll and we want to get to that Premiership final," said Stevens.

"If I can get there it gives me as good a chance of playing for England as anybody else.

"It's a very competitive front row at Saracens – everyone's vying for positions. We've got a lot of international players and guys who could be internationals.

"It's a difficult spot to get, so you get it and you hold on to it. I'm pushing for that place all the time and I'm happy with how things are going."

Stevens will face his old teammates on Sunday when Saracens welcome Bath to Vicarage Road and the former Lion is relishing the challenge.

"I'm sure I'll get a very friendly hello when I play them," he joked.

"I don't know what front row they're going to start with – last week was David Flatman and Duncan Bell, two very good scrummagers.

"Obviously there is Lee Mears, an international hooker, so it's going to be a tough game."

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