Richards is one of three scrum-halves in the squad of 32

London Irish coach Toby Booth says hard work is the reason three of the club's players are in the England elite squad.

Nick Kennedy, Shane Geraghty and Peter Richards were named in Martin Johnson's squad of 32, announced on Tuesday.

Booth told BBC Radio Berkshire he was especially pleased for second-row forward Kennedy.

"He and I have been in constant contact with the England coaches to outline what he needs to do and he's worked very hard at that," said Booth.

Interview: London Irish coach Toby Booth

"Although he didn't manage to get onto the pitch in New Zealand, I understand they were very pleased with what he did.

"He feels he couldn't have done any more and he's been duly rewarded.

Those two boys are game-breaking players and I'm sure when they're fit and well they'll bring things to London Irish and to England Toby Booth

"I think they were looking at different combinations and having made Steve Borthwick captain, it was a situation that Nick knew would be difficult.

"I'm sure he would have liked a bench spot, but it's a very difficult place to go and they opted for experience. He's obviously done enough in training to force the issue."

Booth also fully endorsed the inclusion of Geraghty and Richards in the backs.

"England want to improve their attacking play and they need people who are willing to risk a bit to gain a bit.

"Those two boys are game-breaking players and I'm sure when they're fit and well they'll bring things to London Irish and to England."

Geraghty and Kennedy are both products of London Irish's academy, where Booth also coached before moving up to the senior squad.

Kennedy was in the England squad in New Zealand but was unused

Booth said it gave him particular satisfaction to see his charges continue to progress.

"It's nice to grow your own and I've had a direct involvement with a lot of the boys," he said.

"The boys have put the effort in and got their reward and I hope that continues with the current academy boys because they know at London Irish if you're good enough, we will give you the chance to play."

Four Exiles were included in the Saxons squad, including Topsy Ojo and David Paice who both made their debuts on England's recent tour of New Zealand.

Booth said both would use the disappointment of missing out this time to drive them on.

"They've had some exposure and that will fuel their ambition further. They don't see it as a knock-back, but a reason to do a little bit more," he added.