Michael Paterson called up to England squad

England head coach Stuart Lancaster has called up Sale Sharks forward Michael Paterson to the squad that is currently touring New Zealand.

Paterson was born in Christchurch but qualifies for England through his grandfather, and with the 29-year-old visiting family in the area, Lancaster has taken the opportunity to draft him into the squad as cover.

The 44-year-old told reporters: "We wanted some second row cover and with Michael having trained with us leading up to the Barbarians game and knowing our systems, it made sense to call on him as he was in Christchurch visiting family.

"He trained well with us this morning and will be in contention for selection for what is an important match against the Crusaders."

England lost the opening game of their three-match series with New Zealand last weekend.