Martin Johnson has warned his England stars they could be jeopardising their Test futures by leaving the Guinness Premiership to play in France.

The London Wasps trio of James Haskell, Riki Flutey and Tom Palmer have secured bumper pay rises by signing with French clubs for next season while fly-half Andy Goode has returned to Brive to play this weekend.

Team manager Johnson spoke to his squad at their Bagshot base last night about the dangers of following their team-mates to France and although he will not ignore players who do go, he wants to be consulted by any of his men who are thinking of leaving the Premiership.

"The three players have said their contracts in France include release for England duty and it's important that happens," said Johnson. "However, I told them it is harder to see them play. Yes, we can watch tapes of their games in France but they are not going to be in the Premiership.

"We have explained our thoughts and it will be harder to compare them against guys playing every week in the Premiership. It's up to the individual to make their own decision and they have said it's about a new challenge and not just the money.

"Ultimately, it is their own call and in my discussion with the squad I asked anyone who was considering a similar move to come and talk to us. We are not going to tell them what to do but we can give them advice and it is their choice as professional rugby players.

"I told those who are going to France they need to get the release clauses for England in their contracts or it will make it very difficult.”

Potential problems for players based in France are highlighted this weekend when Goode and Danny Cipriani are bidding for one place at fly-half in the match squad to face Ireland in Dublin on 28 February.

Cipriani is playing for London Wasps at home to Northampton and will be watched by the England selectors.

However, Goode, who started against Wales, will not be monitored live when he plays against Biarritz on Saturday.