Mike Brown has admitted being dropped for the first time by Eddie Jones left him “massively disappointed, frustrated and upset”.
England’s most-capped fullback was axed for the November internationals as Jones reacted to losing five Tests out of six.
But a strong autumn for Harlequins has brought a Six Nations call-up and now he hopes his proven ability under the high ball will earn him the nod to face Ireland in Dublin a fortnight today.
Brown said: “I don’t think I’m a better player but I feel I’m in a better place mentally and backing myself more in what I’m doing.
“Who am I to say Eddie was right or wrong? He is the boss, he has been in the game a lot longer than I have and selection is his job. My job is to go away and deal with it the best way I can.”
Jones insists Brown remained firmly in his thoughts despite Elliot Daly being handed the No15 shirt for the last four games, with mixed results.
“Mike is a great defensive full back and he has to be ready to go when his opportunity comes,” said the Australian. “It might be Saturday fortnight.”
Brown, fresh from helping Quins qualify for the European Challenge Cup quarter-finals with a 33-17 win at Agen on Friday night. cannot think of a fixture he would rather return in.
"As a full back you would relish playing Ireland as it is a team that prides itself in terms of its kicking game," he said.
"The aerial game is massively important and Ireland have two of the best in the business, so obviously there'll be massive emphasis on the back three."
Mike Brown is a Land Rover ambassador. Land Rover has a heritage in rugby, sharing and understanding the values of the sport. @LandRoverRugby