Flood hoping to cement Test spot

Flood has replaced Andy Goode in the England team for Saturday's RBS 6 Nations showdown with Ireland at Croke Park, meaning England have now changed their starting fly-half seven times and used five different players in 10 Test matches, dating back to when Jonny Wilkinson was the incumbent during the 2008 RBS 6 Nations.

"Leicester play in a lot of high-profile games. I have enjoyed my time there and being in that environment at the club has allowed me to improve my game," said Flood. "It's the time you want to be to putting your hand up and making a mark, to cement a position in the squad in which there is a huge amount of competition."

Flood, who moved to Welford Road from Newcastle last summer, was unavailable for England's opening win against Italy after suffering a calf injury but came off the bench to replace Goode in the defeat to Wales.

England boss Martin Johnson has been impressed by Flood's development, both with Leicester and England this season.

"You want players to nail down the position. We need a core of players who when we pick the side are consistent in international rugby," said Johnson.

"There are a few positions which have been chopped and changed for various reasons and this is Toby's opportunity to take hold of it with a good performance.

"Toby's kicking game has been very good when he has come on, his defence has improved, as has his grasp of what we are trying to do in attack and his distribution has been good.

"We have seen a bit more composure from him this season. This is a chance for Toby to come in and get a start.

"I thought he did well when he started there against the All Blacks (in November) and this is an opportunity to nail down the position."