Barkley reveals England ambitions

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Bath fly-half Barkley is among 11 changes from the side that walloped Wales in record-breaking fashion last weekend to face France, and a commanding performance could secure a prized World Cup place.

"It is a huge opportunity for me," acknowledged the 25-year-old. "Injuries last season didn't really help my progression in terms of international rugby, but the Churchill Cup (in May and June) was a good tournament for me."

He added: "England-wise, I would like to have done more.

"I don't feel I have done it to the best of my ability yet, so I have every intention of making the most of the remaining years of my career at international level."

Ashton, who names his 30-man World Cup squad next Tuesday, has chosen Barkley ahead of Toby Flood and Charlie Hodgson, with the latter appearing destined to miss out on England's Webb Ellis Trophy defence.

Ashton said: "I am not convinced the sort of rugby Olly was playing day in, day out, week in, week out over the past four or five seasons suited the style of game he wanted to play.

"I think he is suited to a game that has got more tempo and rhythm to it, rather than a game that is mapped out for him on a piece of paper before he goes out where you plod your way from A to B to C to D.

"The pressure, because of what happened last Saturday, has gone up for the guys who are playing this weekend, and that is precisely how you want it.

"For players in some positions, there is a massive pressure on their shoulders, but I am confident they will be able to handle it."