Jonathan Joseph admits he was upset at being overlooked during the autumn but believes he is in a better place now than he was a year ago to force his way back into the Red Rose side.
England head coach Stuart Lancaster opted to shift Brad Barritt out to 13 during the autumn series rather than play Joseph in his customary outside-centre birth.
The 23-year-old, who has touched down six times for Bath already this season, received the last of his six England caps against Argentina in June 2013.
Joseph was named in Lancaster’s Elite Player Squad for the November Tests, but did not feature in any games.
He told TRP: “It’s been frustrating in the sense you get named in the squad which is great and everyone’s up for selection, but then you’re not selected.
“It’s always a bit upsetting when you don’t get a look in.
“But all I can do is keep performing for Bath and keep training hard – those are the controllables. After that, it’s the coaches’ choice.
“I’m in the mix more than I was last year. I feel I’m in a good place. The season has gone much better than last season at Bath.
“I’ve really applied myself and worked on all aspects of my game. My understanding of what’s required within the team has got much better.”
TOM BRADSHAW