Ben Foden is hoping for another Six Nations chance this season

Northampton coach Jim Mallinder believes Ben Foden deserves the chance to play for England at full-back.

The 23-year-old, who can also play at scrum-half, was picked as a replacement for the Six Nations match against Italy but then dropped from the squad.

"Ben has a good all-round full-back game," Mallinder told BBC Radio Northampton after the Saints' 22-12 win over Worcester on Saturday.

"I don't quite know what else you need in that position."

He added: "He kicks long when he needs to. He kicks high and re-gathers when he has to.

"He certainly hits the line with power and pace, and he defends as well as the best of them."

Foden was called in as back-up for England's game against Ireland in Dublin and travelled with the squad, without being involved on match day.

But he helped Northampton to victory at Sixways on Saturday - their first Guinness Premiership success of the season away from Franklin's Gardens.

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