France-bound Manu Tuilagi admits he will miss playing for England but is excited about the team’s future.
The 32-year-old centre is leaving Sale Sharks at the end of the season and has signed a two-year deal with Top 14 side Bayonne.
His 60th cap in England’s Six Nations loss to France in March ended a 13-year international career following the Samoan-born star’s naturalisation.
RFU rules state players leaving the Premiership are not eligible for international selection.
Tuilagi told BBC North West Tonight: “It’s a tough one because you still want to play [for England] but I’ve learned that what you want, you don’t always get. I think I’ll miss it, but now I’ll be a fan.
“The last two games of the Six Nations, Ireland then going to France, taking it right to the wire – it’s exciting. I am excited to see the boys keep that growth going, I think there is so much growth in that team. As a fan I am so excited.”