The 23-year-old only made his international debut in the final game of this year’s Six Nations – a 12-10 loss to champions France – but just five starts later the Northampton Saint has emerged as England’s most potent weapon.

A first Red Rose try came as Martin Johnson’s troops beat Australia 21-20 in Sydney in the summer, before he repeated the trick this month as he crossed twice in a convincing 35-18 win against the Wallabies – the second score a sensational near-100m effort for one of the greatest Twickenham tries.

But with the clamour to compare Ashton to England’s last great cross-code convert Robinson builds – Healey believes this would not do the flying winger the justice he deserves.

“With Ashton’s background there have been similarities with Robinson – obviously with their rugby league background,” said Healey – speaking at Twickenham to promote O2 Inside Line on RFU TV.

“But that is where the comparison should stop as they are both completely different players.

“Don’t get me wrong both guys pose a real threat when running at players but it is unfair to paint Ashton with the same brush because he will undoubtedly create his own history.

“In the game there is no substitute out on the wings for raw pace and it is clear for all to see that Ashton has that and then some.

“And not just that but he backs that up with a real try-scoring threat every game which will strike fear into opponents and help raise the confidence of his team-mates.”

But as Ashton’s profile continues to rise, so will the target on his back as opposition players look to stem his flow any way they can.

And Former British and Irish Lion Healey insists he could do with a little help from his England team-mates as he looks to continue running riot on the wing.

“He is an electrifying winger who looks as though he could be a world beater for years to come but it is important that we don’t put pressure on him,” Healey added.

“We need to protect him both on and off the pitch because he is going to be targeted now for big tackles and while he is quick enough and light on his feet to skip past most of them he will get caught.

“And with people talking about him as the new Robinson and our greatest hope for the World Cup it is going to be important to keep him grounded.”

To get the inside scope on the England squad, as well as fun features, match analysis and up to the minute player interviews with presenters Austin Healey and Abi Griffiths, watch the latest episode of “O2 Inside Line” on RFU TV at: www.o2insideline.com