The 22-year-old crossed twice in seven second-half minutes as Northampton came back from a 13-3 deficit to win 30-18 at Franklin’s Gardens.

Ashton has now scored 13 tries in 14 games this season and Mallinder believes the rugby league convert has all the attributes to force his way in to England coach Martin Johnson's RBS 6 Nations squad next year.

“Chris is a fine player and he is improving all the time – but it is up to Martin Johnson to decide when he wants to pick him,” said Mallinder.

“He is a great finisher, a real poacher who always seems to be in the right position at the right time and he cannot stop scoring tries and that is great for the team.

“I think it is something they learn in rugby league – when to pop up and do the business and long may it continue.”