Sunday 6 May 2018 10:41, UK
Manu Tuilagi says he is not expecting to be called up by Eddie Jones for England's tour to South Africa as he does not think he is fit enough.
The 26-year-old has been plagued by injuries in recent years, meaning he has not been able to play for England for over two years.
Tuilagi has played 12 times for Leicester Tigers this season - scoring four tries - but he still does not think he has done enough to force his way into Jones' squad.
He told The Mail on Sunday: "I couldn't expect to be part of the summer tour to South Africa. I don't think I am up there yet or good enough to be in that team, so I'll get ready for next season.
"Now we are at the end of the season, pre-season will be a really important one, and I want to work on my game, my skills and my physicality.
"When I come back I want to have a run of games and show some good form. Eddie Jones always picks his players on form, and I need to play and keep playing."
Tuilagi last played for his country against Wales in the 2016 Six Nations, but that has not prevented him from targeting a place in England's squad for next year's World Cup.
He said: "The World Cup is always in the back of your mind, for any player you want to play well for your club and then your country.
"But the emphasis for me at the minute is focusing on getting fit and staying fit, and I just want to enjoy playing rugby. If I do that, the rest should look after itself."
All three Tests between South Africa and England will be shown live on Sky Sports in June.
