DAVID Wilson insists he won’t be closing the curtain on his England career despite the Bath Rugby prop missing out on a place in new head coach Eddie Jones’ first squad.

Wilson has been pretty much a mainstay in the Red Rose camp since making his international debut in 2009, racking up 44 caps and featuring in the last two World Cups.

However, Australian Jones has made sweeping changes to the England squad after replacing Stuart Lancaster in the wake of last year’s early World Cup exit.

Wilson was one of a number of established names to miss out when the new Elite Performance Squad was named on Wednesday but the 30-year-old says he will still answer should England come calling again in the future.

“To be able to represent your country is amazing and I’ve really enjoyed my time with England whenever I have been involved,” said Trowbridge-based Wilson.

“I feel like I’ve done okay this season - maybe they want to go with a younger group of props with a view to building towards the next World Cup.

“I don’t think I’ll ever call time on that. If England still want me, and I am fit and healthy and still feel I am playing well enough, then I’d like to think I’d still be putting my hand up.”

Despite his England disappointment, Wilson has the consolation of a new Bath contract after putting pen to paper on a new deal this week.

Wilson has become a cornerstone of the Bath pack ever since arriving at The Rec from hometown club Newcastle Falcons in 2009 and says vying for selection with Henry Thomas, who has been included by England, is keeping him on his toes.

“It was an easy decision, there’s no other club I want to be at.

“I want to be winning trophies with this club and I feel like we’re on the right road for that,” said Wilson.

“I’ve been here a long time and I love it here. I still feel like I am improving everyday under the coaches.

“I’m the most experienced prop in the squad. That does come with a bit more responsibility but I feel like I’m in quite a good position to pass on bits of advice and help to the younger guys in a squad.

“Henry is a fantastic player and it’s great to have someone like him in the squad alongside me.

“Whether he’s coming off the bench or starting you know he’s going to do a great job.”