Danny Cipriani: Sale Sharks fly-half 'working' on England recall

Sale Sharks fly-half Danny Cipriani knows he needs to improve his form to get back into the England squad.

Cipriani made his first international appearances since 2008 during England's summer tour of New Zealand.

But he missed out on a place in Stuart Lancaster's squad for the autumn internationals, with Owen Farrell, George Ford and Stephen Myler selected.

"I think I need to play better to get into the England squad," the 27-year-old told BBC North West Tonight.

"I didn't quite make it this time round and there's still bits for me to keep working on - and the two-way communication with England coaches does make you feel more involved."

The former Wasps and Melbourne Rebels number 10 helped Sale to three wins in a row while England were testing themselves against four southern hemisphere teams.

It was Cipriani's moment of magic that inspired the Sharks to a 18-13 Premiership win at Newcastle.

After England's indifferent recent form, pundits such as 2003 World Cup winning coach Sir Clive Woodward have called for Cipriani's inclusion.

Sale director of rugby Steve Diamond called England "conservative" for not even selecting him in the squad.

Owen Farrell (right) lost his England place to Bath fly-half George Ford in the autumn internationals

"Just because people are saying whatever they are saying about being picked, it's down to the coaches," added Cipriani.

"They've give me clear instruction of areas they want me to work on and that's exactly what I'm going to keep doing.

"I'm not going to stop trying my hardest and doing the best I can to put my hand up to represent my country."

Cipriani, who is out of contract at the end of the season, could face England fly-half Farrell, 23, on Saturday as Sale take on Saracens in the European Champions Cup.

"It's the type of game you want to put your hand up and perform in," said Cipriani.

"I know Owen through the England camps and you can see the drive and passion he has as a player. It will be a great challenge at the weekend if we get to go head-to-head."