If he does play, Flutey does not expect much animosity from the country he left. The London Wasps player said: "I've had so many supportive messages from former school mates and colleagues.

"One that stands out is a text I got from ex-All Black Norm Hewett. To have him say it was honour to play alongside me was amazing and to get his blessing to play for England means so much to me.

"In New Zealand I was a utility player often covering lots of positions on the bench. To be fair to my coaches back there, I did get opportunities but I didn't take them. Over here I've been getting game time week in week out and I've really enjoyed it."