Healey calls for Cipriani recall

Former England international Austin Healey thinks England should give "serious consideration" to handing a recall to fly-half Danny Cipriani.

Cipriani was named as the Aviva Premiership player of the month for March following a series of excellent performances that have helped put Sale on the brink of the play-offs.

Cipriani, 26, won the last of his seven caps in November 2008 with perceived problems over his attitude and celebrity lifestyle hampering his chances at the highest level.

England tour New Zealand in June and Healey, who won 51 caps for England and two for the British & Irish Lions, says it is now the right time to bring Cipriani back into the national setup.

"The fortunes and abilities of Danny and Sale seem to have run in tandem over the past 18 months and the comparisons are no coincidence," Healey said.

"He has successfully transformed his game from a reckless talent to an influential and controlling number 10 and now warrant serious consideration for further honours.

"Danny has always had a maverick inside waiting to break out at any stage, which he still has.

"A maverick playing within a structured game plan is very dangerous."

Owen Farrell is currently England's fly-half and George Ford deputised during the RBS 6 Nations.

Cipriani faces competition from the likes of Freddie Burns and Stephen Myler to be third choice for the three-Test tour of New Zealand, which also includes a midweek game against the Crusaders.

Players involved in the Premiership final 31st May will not be available to play in the opening Test in Auckland on 7th June.