Northampton Saints full-back Ben Foden says that he does not regard himself as a 'regular' for England.

The 25-year-old played in all four of England's autumn internationals, scoring one try against South Africa.

Foden told BBC Look East: "With international rugby, each game you play, you try to keep your spot.

"I just need to keep my form running at Saints. Heineken Cup rugby is where you lay down performances that the selectors take note of."

England beat Australia and Samoa in their autumn programme but were defeated by New Zealand and world champions South Africa at Twickenham.

Foden added: "We had a mixed bag of results in the autumn internationals.

"We were targeting three wins from four and we didn't step up in the last game [against South Africa]."

The title is definitely not a million miles away. But we've been in this situation last season and we didn't make it Ben Foden

"It's a good sign we're disappointed not to have beaten a top side. We are quite a young side but each time we take the field, we're learning and developing."

Foden has rejoined the Northampton ranks with Saints six points clear at the top of the Aviva Premiership with a game in hand, and top of Pool One of the Heineken Cup having won both of their opening two games ahead of Saturday's home meeting with Cardiff Blues.

But, having lost in the Premiership play-off semi-finals and the Heineken Cup quarter-finals last season, Foden is taking nothing for granted.

"The title is definitely not a million miles away," he said. "But we've been in this situation last season and we didn't make it.

"Jim Mallinder and Dorian West have strengthened the squad to make sure we're there or thereabouts, and we're oozing confidence. It's a good place to be right now.

"I hope that'll continue through the season and show in our performances and in the trophy cabinet as well."

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