England could yet call up Hayes, warns Exeter boss

EXETER CHIEFS head coach Rob Baxter admits he’s surprised his captain Tom Hayes hasn’t been capped by Ireland and revealed the Limerick man could be called up by England boss Martin Johnson.

Hayes, brother of Munster and Ireland prop John, has had an excellent season for Exeter, their first in the Aviva Premiership, leading them to an impressive eighth place finish. His contribution was recognised on Tuesday night when he was included at second row in the Premiership’s team of the season and named captain of the team.

“It’s more than just this season. Tommy has done a fantastic job for us as a player and captain over the last two or three years,” said Baxter.

“He’s been rightly rewarded by being picked as captain of the Premiership’s team of the season. I am surprised he hasn’t played for Ireland yet but what he’s got to do now is follow up the good work of this season by putting in another string of consistently good performances next season.

“International rugby is another step-up from the Premiership but if you can prove yourself to be a top performer over a long period of time, you’ll be recognised. That’s what gives you the basis to make that step-up.

“You also need to remember that Tommy also qualifies for England now. I haven’t spoken to Tommy about it so I don’t know what his international ambitions are.

“He’s aware that playing well for Exeter could lead to international recognition, whether it’s with Ireland or England.

“Tommy’s priority is to play well for us and it’s for other people to decide if they want to see him in an international shirt.”

Meanwhile, Perpignan winger Julien Candelon has been given a six-week ban for his dangerous tackle on Northampton scrum-half Lee Dickson.

The incident took place in Saints’ 23-7 victory in the Heineken Cup semi-final staged at stadium:mk on May 1. The offence was deemed to be in the mid range of severity and Candelon is free to resume playing from June 13.