Gloucester’s Freddie Burns eyes England starting spot

Freddie Burns wants a starting place in England’s autumn internationals but accepts he has a battle on his hands to push past Owen Farrell and Toby Flood.

With Flood rested over the summer and Farrell away on Lions duty, 23-year-old Burns got the chance to impress the Red Rose selectors on the successful summer tour to Argentina.

Having previously made his international debut against New Zealand in December 2012, the Gloucester fly-half scored 37 points in South America, including crossing over for his first England try.

England face Argentina, Australia and New Zealand this November, with coach Stuart Lancaster looking to establish his team before the 2014 Six Nations.

And while relishing the battle with his rivals, Burns admitted he wants to continue to feature in Lancaster’s plans.

“To see those two playing well pushes me to play well,” said Burns. “Everyone talks about Owen and his kicking game. You’ve seen with the Lions him taking the ball a lot flatter as an attacking threat.

“Toby’s always taken the game on, and the way he bosses a game and communicates is second to none.

“I think they’re both quality players. I want to be involved and starting in the autumn, but I know that comes off the back of playing well for my club and I’m sure Owen and Toby have got the same mindset.”