Reclaiming England place will be tough - Joe Launchbury
England lock Joe Launchbury, left, is relishing his new role as Wasps captain
©PA
England international Joe Launchbury has admitted that the place in the national team cannot be taken for granted considering the fierce competition among the squad members.
Launchbury, who made his England debut against Fiji at Twickenham in 2012, has played 35 Tests thus far but has been on the bench in the last five out of the six games including the recent tour of Australia.
Admitting Maro Itoje and George Kruis have been selected on merit, the 25-year-old hopes his performance in the ongoing Aviva Premiership will force his selection in the starting line-up during the autumn internationals.
"They (Itoje and Kruis) have come in and played well and there is no hiding behind that," Launchbury said.
"But I am pleased with the way I am playing and looking forward to trying to get a string of games together here (at Wasps).
"For me, it is a case of playing here and trying to force my hand as much as I can.
"I have been on the other side of that (England selection) and enjoyed it and played well. It is important for me to realise that, and try and do all I can to get back there."
The former England U20 lock was appointed as the captain of Wasps prior to the start of the season and he kick started his new role with a 25-20 victory over Exeter last weekend.
Stating the additional responsibility motivates him, Launchbury is hoping to set an example for his teammates at Wasps by leading from the front.
"I am not going to stand there ranting and raving at people. I try and set standards myself, and hopefully people will follow.
"For me, so far, I have really enjoyed the added responsibility, and the extra attention to detail you have to have. I am really enjoying it, and I feel like it is helping me.
"It's a different role for me, but one that I probably always wanted to do."
Launchbury also played down the possibility of being included in the Lions squad for the New Zealand tour next year. He further added that his focus is currently on performing for his club and country.
"It's a long way away. I need to try and play well here at Wasps, play as much as I can and try to get back in the England team.
"I have got to try and bang down the door as hard as I can, and enjoy the extra responsibility I have here in leadership, and try to make that count in my performance."
