Austin Healey: 'Danny Cipriani deserves England recall'

Former England international Austin Healey has backed Danny Cipriani for a recall to the national side.

The Sale Sharks fly-half has not played an international match since 2008, but has kept his club in playoff contention in the Aviva Premiership this season.

Healey, who earned 51 caps for his country, told Sky Sports News: "The fortunes and abilities of Danny and Sale seem to have run in tandem over the past 18 months and the comparisons are no coincidence.

"He has successfully transformed his game from a reckless talent to an influential and controlling number 10 and now warrant serious consideration for further honours.

"Danny has always had a maverick inside waiting to break out at any stage, which he still has. A maverick playing within a structured game plan is very dangerous."

England are due to tour New Zealand this summer.