Saints centre Burrell brushes off England talk

CLUB BEFORE COUNTRY - Luther Burrell is concentrating on starring for Saints (picture by Linda Dawson)

A space looks to have become available in England’s centre department for the upcoming autumn internationals, with Leicester Tigers star Manu Tuilagi set to be ruled out with injury.

Tuilagi suffered a torn pectoral muscle in the closing stages of Tigers’ 31-6 win over Newcastle last weekend and could be out for a period of months.

And with Saracens star Brad Barritt also sidelined long-term, Burrell, who has started the season with a bang at Saints, could come into contention.

The 25-year-old was on England’s tour of South America during the summer and has used that experience as a springboard for the new season, shining in wins against Exeter and Harlequins.

But the former Sale Sharks powerhouse is playing down talk of being part of the Red Rose party this autumn and is instead concentrating on continuing his impressive start to the domestic action.

“To be completely honest, I don’t really look at it (England) at all,” said Burrell, who has yet to make his Test debut.

“This is where it counts for me. It’s my club rugby. I want to be playing consistently for this club. If I get anything after that, it’s fantastic.

“But for me it’s all about playing well for Northampton Saints at the moment.”