Borthwick will fight for England place

Borthwick was dropped by Martin Johnson (PA)

Steve Borthwick is determined to regain his England place after being omitted from Martin Johnson's Elite Player Squad for the forthcoming season.

The Saracens lock, who has led England in 20 out of their last 23 Tests, paid the price after the likes of Tom Palmer, Courtney Lawes and Dave Attwood impressed on the recent tour of Australia and New Zealand, which Borthwick missed as he was allowed to rest following a knee injury.

Borthwick's spell as captain co-incided with several turgid England displays, particularly during the 2008 and 2009 autumn campaigns, and he bore the brunt of criticism from the public and media, but he is determined to work his way back into Johnson's plans ahead of next year's World Cup in New Zealand.

"You always plan for a positive result and not to be selected was bitterly disappointing," he told The Times.

"I reckon I was playing pretty well during the Six Nations and I would certainly have backed myself but I wasn't on the tour.

"I won't dwell on the negative side. The team is more important than I am, but I desperately want to be part of the success of the England team - that's all I ever wanted."

The 57-times capped forward, who was on honeymoon when he was told of his demotion to the Saxons squad, acknowledged that the second rows on tour had made an impact, but feels he was deserving of a place in Johnson's squad.

"The guys played well and when you have an opportunity as a player that's what you must do, take it," he continued.

"But I believe I did the job asked of me over the last number of internationals.

"I'll get myself into the best possible condition to come back."