ALAN GAFFNEY was once again championing his Saracens players' international credentials after they defeated Bath yesterday (Sunday).

Sarries beat a side containing seven England players prompting Gaffney to renew calls for Brian Ashton to take another look at the Men in Black's home-grown stars after none were selected for the senior Six Nations squad.

Only Ben Skirving was called up to the England Saxons squad by virtue of injury.

"We had 12 players start against Bath who are eligible to play for England but we don't come into the mix," mused the director of rugby. "The lads are very happy to be playing well for Saracens and we've always promoted the fact we want our players to go as high as they can. But I feel for them."

Gaffney revealed he has hardly spoken to England coach Brian Ashton since he succeeded Andy Robinson but added that England forwards coach John Wells had been keeping a close eye on the Men in Black's English contingent.

"John comes down and has a chat from time to time," added Gaffney. "He has a word in the ears of a few of our players."