Shane Geraghty insists he has no divided loyalties following his surprise England call-up. London Irish fly-half Geraghty, whose father is Irish, was named in Brian Ashton's 33-strong squad for the Six Nations on Tuesday.

The gifted 20-year-old represented Ireland at Under-16 level but has since appeared for England at Under-18, 19 and 21 levels.

His inclusion in Ashton's first squad has effectively ended any chance of playing for Ireland again, but the Coventry-born back is happy to commit himself to England.

He said: "I did play for Ireland but I have been through the academy system in England and I have lived here my whole life, so this is where my heart is.

"I had no inkling that this was coming. I knew a squad was being announced but I try and keep away from things like that and keep my head down at London Irish."

Geraghty admits fellow Exile Mike Catt is the only player he will know when England meet up for training.

He added: "I don't know any of the players apart from watching them on television. Hopefully Mike will look after me there. I've met Jonny Wilkinson once before when London Irish were training against England.

"It's going to be a bit different this time, wearing the England kit and training with him. I can't wait."

Geraghty will battle with Newcastle's Toby Flood for the number 10 jersey for the Six Nations clash with Scotland on February 3rd.

Wilkinson, who is continuing his rehabilitation from a lacerated kidney, is almost certain to miss the opener.