Pountney said: “JC’s call-up is fully deserved. He has made a positional switch this year which he has thoroughly enjoyed and adjusted to. JC is a naturally gifted rugby player and he has a long career ahead of him in the centre. We hope he has a long career ahead of him at Saints too.”

Clarke has played all his rugby in the No 13 shirt this season, missing just one game due to illness. He has scored four tries this season to take his Saints career tally to nine. His first season at Franklin’s Gardens – 2003/04 – saw him voted the club’s Young Player of the Year.

John Wells, England A coach, said: “Jon has had an outstanding season in what at times has been a difficult start for Northampton. Jon has a good boot, he tackles well and he has got that little bit of flair – that something different – to make things happen. We are looking forward to seeing what he could potentially do against Italy and Ireland.”

Clarke said: “At the start of the season, my chances of playing seemed pretty slim, so just being able to play for Northampton Saints most weeks has been awesome. There are quite a few 13s in the squad with quite a bit of experience, but it is great to be part of it (England set-up) again."