I'll be Back, says shocked Neil

England World Cup winner Neil Back has admitted his shock at being axed from the squad for the RBS 6 Nations Championship opener against Italy – but has vowed to win back his international place.

The 66-times capped flanker was yesterday omitted by coach Clive Woodward, together with fellow World Cup winners Kyran Bracken and Martin Corry.

The Leicester player had no inkling he was set to be dropped, with Woodward maintaining his decision was always to pick a squad on the current form.

“I was shocked,” said the 35-year-old. “A couple of months ago I was a world champion.

“I was on top of my game then and nothing has changed from my personal view. I don’t think my form has dipped since then, but Clive picks the team.”

He added: “My kit had been laid out at home ready for me to drive down to the team hotel in the morning.

“I’ve spoken to Clive and he didn’t want to take me down there just to send me back because he didn’t need me in the 22.”

Back, though, has not ruled out an international return.

He declared: “My motivation to play the game of rugby and my enthusiasm hasn’t dipped.

“As long as I’m playing rugby union at club level, I will aspire to get into the England team.”

Woodward is set to announce the 22 for the game in Rome later today.