Foden biding his time

by Admin , 11 March 2010

Ben Foden says he has learnt his lesson and will bide his time to earn a starting place in the England side under Martin Johnson.


The Northampton full-back found himself in hot water with the England supremo after revealing that he was "livid" for being overlooked for the autumn internationals.

Johnson spoke to the 24-year-old after his comments and made it clear that he was unhappy that the youngster had gone public with his feeling over England selection.

Foden has also failed to nail down a starting berth for the Six Nations tournament, with Delon Armitage preferred at 15, but made it clear that he will be keeping his feelings very much to himself after events last year.

"After the autumn internationals I made the mistake of venting my frustrations," he said.

"Johnno phoned me up and said: "If you've got to comment, talk to us about it'.

"So that is one thing I have been able to do.

"Obviously I am very disappointed I didn't get the call but Brian Smith told me it was very close and that I am pushing Delon to the limits.

"That is all I needed to hear because it shows they are thinking about me and looking at me." Armitage injured his ribs against Ireland last time out, giving Foden a half-hour run-out, and it was thought that he would keep his place for the weekend's Calcutta Cup clash with Scotland.

However, Armitage retains his place with Foden again being used as an impact player from the bench - something he is okay with.

"I think it is reassuring, it shows they are thinking of me," he added.

"If I do take the field I will give it my best and try to run him close for the last game in France."

Subscribe to Setanta
Hungary v Ireland

Setanta Sports broadcasts exclusively live coverage of the best premium football, rugby and motorsport including Barclays Premier League, Rugby World Cup 2011, French Top 14, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, League of Ireland, Rabobank Pro12 and Golf from around the World.

Edit Web Part Contents