NEC Harlequins back row Nick Easter hopes he can grab a second chance to prove his international credentials after winning an England recall to face France this Sunday.

The 28-year-old starts in his favoured position of number eight in this weekend's Six Nations clash, with clubmate David Strettle switching wings following the return of Jason Robinson.

Easter replaces Leicester Tigers skipper Martin Corry, who switches to lock.

The Quins star was dropped after making his debut in last month's 20-7 victory over Italy, but the former Dulwich College student believes that experience will help settle his nerves.

"It feels great to be called back into the squad. Number eight is a more influential position and hopefully I'll be able to make an impression," he said.

"I felt I didn't do too much wrong against Italy but, at the same time, I didn't exactly set the world alight either.

"I don't think any player is happy about being dropped but Brian Ashton has given me another chance and hopefully I can take it.

"I didn't get much sleep before the last game. I'm sure the nerves will still be there but at least I might get a bit more sleep this time around."

Easter's call-up means he misses Quins' sell-out meeting with Wasps on Saturday, but he plans to be at the Twickenham Stoop shouting his team-mates on.

"I would have liked to have played but I'll be there with a few of the Wasps boys cheering the guys on," he added.

"We certainly owe them one after earlier in the year. It is probably best we don't share a box otherwise it could get a bit violent."