Leicester's Geoff Parling in England frame - Cockerill

Geoff Parling (left) tackles Wasps' former Leicester winger Tom Varndell

Leicester Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill believes lock Geoff Parling has given himself a great chance of earning an England call-up.

Parling returned to the side with an impressive 80-minute display in the 29-11 win over Wasps.

And with Louis Deacon and Courtney Lawes both injured, Cockerill feels Parling merits an England call.

"With the injury issues, Parling, on that performance, can't be far away," Cockerill told BBC Radio Leicester.

Parling had been sidelined with a knee injury since November, but he starred in the victory at Welford Road and Cockerill feels a call-up to the Six Nations squad would not be out of the question.

"It's been six or seven weeks he's been out and I'm delighted for him," Cockerill added. "Geoff ran the lineout and outplayed Marco Wentzel in the lineout, who is a quality operator."

Cockerill was also quick to praise versatile back Billy Twelvetrees, who scored all 29 points in the battling win.

"Billy has been playing well this season," Cockerill added. "He has earned the right to step up and play in the big games. he did that and has done the whole season.

"He has started all but two games when he has been available so I am delighted for him."