Meehan thinks more Bath players should be in the England squad (Getty Images)

Steve Borthwick, Matt Stevens and Lee Mears were all called up by Brian Ashton, but Meehan told BBC Radio Bristol there should have been others.

"I am certainly disappointed for a few of the guys who aren't going to be involved," said Meehan.

"Probably it is a case of Bath Rugby having to develop into a side that consistently finishes in the top four."

Meehan added: "In achieving that perhaps we will change the perception out there that our players aren't where they need to be.

"If we consistently finish near the top then this perception must change and I would hope as a result the guys will get the opportunity I believe they deserve."

It is a great honour to be picked for your country Bath hooker Lee Mears

While players including Olly Barkley and Michael Lipman may be feeling hard done by at not being selected, hooker Mears is relishing the opportunity to try force his way into England's starting XV.

Mears was part of England's World Cup squad but struggled to force his way past Mark Regan.

Now, with the start of the Six Nations only weeks away, Mears wants to spend time on the pitch rather than the England bench.

"When you haven't been picked you come back to your club and try and play as well as you can, and then hopefully they will pick you," said Mears.

606: DEBATE Mears and Borthwick are key players for Bath and will definitely be missed. The lineout is an important area. mikeyphil

"That is what I am hoping this time. I think my club form has been reasonably good, so we will have to wait and see.

"It is a great honour to be picked for your country. You sit there an hope you are lucky enough to be picked in the squad.