George Ford backed to bloom on his return to England's Red Rose garden

George Ford returns to the England squad with years of international rugby still ahead of him.

That is the firm belief of former Red Rose star Richard Wigglesworth, who plays alongside and coaches Ford at Leicester.

Ford, capped 77 times before being surprisingly axed in the autumn, is recalled by Eddie Jones for the Six Nations to fill the void left by injury to Owen Farrell.

Marcus Smith remains first choice for the starting fly-half spot away to Scotland on Saturday week but Ford has been the Premiership’s standout No.10 all season.

Wigglesworth said: “George is a top professional, he can get back in and play well for a number of years, I have no doubt.

“I’m not going to say Marcus isn’t absolutely on fire, he has been for a while. But Eddie has got options.

“I’m sure George feels his best rugby is still to come. I’ve been so impressed with his consistency. There’s no sign of him slowing down, either in his preparation or his attitude.”

Wigglesworth, the Premiership’s record appearance-holder, has quickly become a key member of Steve Borthwick’s set-up on and off the pitch.

Tigers have rocketed from the doldrums to the top of the table, at home and in Europe, aided by the surprise availability of Ford.

Few if anyone saw Jones’ decision coming to axe the 28-year old at the start of the autumn. But Ford took it on the chin and Leicester reaped the benefit.

“I said to George after he was left out that the next one will be the best one,” said Wigglesworth. “What I meant by that is when you’ve been left out you obviously have disappointment.

“But if you put all your energy into your rugby and focus on playing well and not kicking a can down the road, you’ll get your reward.

“George didn’t show disappointment at all, he