Danny Cipriani has warned Andy Goode that he faces a battle to hold on to the England No10 jersey for the Six Nations tournament.

The London Wasps star has been demoted to the England Saxons team for tomorrow's clash with Ireland A in Dublin, with Brive-based Goode recalled to play outside-half in the senior team in their opening Six Nations match with Italy at Twickenham.

Team manager Martin Johnson, backs coach Brian Smith and Cipriani thrashed out a way forward for the Wasps fly-half during the recent training camp in Portugal.

The end result was the decision to play Cipriani in the Saxons and the 21-year-old said: "If I play well tomorrow night then, hopefully, I would like to be back in the jersey next week.

"My destiny is in my own hands. But it's not about me - it's about the team putting in a performance we can be proud of.

"Obviously, I would prefer to be in the first team but my next focus is to be the best influence and team member in this Saxons squad.

"It's the coach's decision and that's what they felt would benefit the team the best. You've got to go with it.

"There are things I need to improve on and that's what I intend to do to get back in the first team again.

"Johnno hasn't spoken to me too much about the specifics because I need to improve all areas of my game. You are never the finished article, you never stop learning.

"Obviously we spoke about the way to move forward but I don't think anybody is happy not to be at the top.

"I know there are things I need to improve to get there and really hold down the No10 shirt. That's what I need to make sure I can do this week and tomorrow night. My focus is the team, it's not about me."

Cipriani hopes Goode and the England team can end their three-game losing run at Twickenham, although he is adamant a recall is possible.

"It's the coach's call and I know Andy has been playing well in France and is a very experienced player," added Cipriani.

"I hope the guys do awesome on Saturday. It's the first game of five and hopefully I will get a chance later in the Six Nations.

"It definitely makes you more determined. There has been a lot of things I've had to overcome and stuff. It's all part and parcel of it.

"I am looking forward to playing in this team and it's about putting down a marker."