Former Colchester Rugby Club youth star Mike Haywood has been picked for more international honours.

The 19-year-old hooker has been chosen for the England Under-20 Elite Player Squad.

He is set to play in this season’s major tournaments, including the Six Nations campaign, which starts on February 5 against Wales in Llanelli.

He will also travel to Italy for this summer’s IRB Junior World Championships.

Haywood is also part of the senior academy at Northampton Saints and Colchester coach Tim Grimsey feels he has the talent and dedication to win senior England caps.

Grimsey has followed the 19-year-old’s career with great interest, having taught him tag rugby as a youngster.

He then watched Haywood progress through the colts at Colchester and now works with him at Saints.

“If there’s one lad who deserves this recognition it’s Michael,” said Grimsey. “He’s a really good lad and I’ve got every faith that he can cut the mustard at this level.”

See this week's Essex County Standard for more on this story and a round-up of all the local rugby action.