Representing England will be 'dream come true' moment for Michael Rhodes

Saracens flanker Michael Rhodes admitted that it will be a dream come true moment if he gets an opportunity to represent England in the future.

South Africa born Rhodes had stints with Super Rugby sides Sharks, Lions and Stormers before he joined Saracens in July 2015. He is just six months away from completing a three-year residency that will make him eligible to represent England and the 30-year-old admitted that he will be desperate to take the chance if it comes his way.

"I haven’t done any proper research into it, I’ve just heard it’s a three-year rule and I have been here since July 2015," he told the Telegraph. "It’s not something I’ve really focused on.

"If it happened, it would be a dream come true, but if it doesn’t happen, so be it.

“I’m not holding on to any hopes of playing for the Springboks, but I would definitely take the chance [of playing for England]. England are really hitting their straps, and it would be nice to test myself at the highest level. I would jump at the chance, for sure."

Rhodes suffered a series of injuries that hampered his career including a fourth operation on his collarbone but recently made a comeback in Saracens' 46-31 win over Worcester Warriors.

“I had 20 minutes last week and 80 today (Saturday). It’s so far, so good. I’ve been out for a long time now and there’s nothing like match fitness,” he commented.

“Getting into the second half of the season I’ll be looking to string some 60 and 80-minute performances together, get the lungs [working] and hopefully we can bring some silverware home at the end of it.”