WILL CARLING has set himself the challenge of re claiming his England squad place through sheer quality of rugby.

The 30 year old former England captain was again omitted from a huge England squad called up for a session at Bisham Abbey next Wednesday.

Carling, Jeremy Guscott, Rory Underwood and Dean Richards - who possess 246 caps between them - are not required, along with a quartet of less experienced players who were in the squad last season.

The 43 man squad is identical to the group that assembled in July, though Richard West replaces the injured Martin Bayfield.

Carling said: "I am keeping my head down and making no comment on selection but I am desperate to play for England - as always.

"Nobody should ever need to ask about my commitment to playing for my country."

Carling, who quit the captaincy last March after leading England to 44 wins in 59 Tests, added: "I have not been told the rationale behind the squad. But I aim to be fitter and better than ever before.

"I trained hard after the World Cup and played some of my best rugby for a long time. This summer I have had no playing commitments and have trained as hard as ever and I hope to be even fitter and make a more influential contribution than last season.

"The selectors stated that more experienced players would be considered when the season is underway, but obviously the season has not started vet."

. The Leinster players with the London Irish club will be available for the province in the forthcoming European Cup.

Officials of the Leinster Branch travelled to London yesterday for discussions with London Irish and the Leinster players based with the club. Last night Leinster honorary secretary Sandy Heffernan, who led the Leinster delegation, said that they had been assured that the players will be released to play for Leinster.