BEN Foden is hotly tipped to start for England in their Calcutta Cup match against Scotland at Murrayfield after showing coach Martin Johnson exactly why he should have selected him in their 20-16 defeat to Ireland.

The 24-year-old fullback from Cholmondeley, one of the most dangerous attacking players in the Guinness Premiership, was brought on from the bench after 58 minutes and immediately showed more zeal and attacking flair than the injured Delon Armitage had in the Six Nations to date.

Foden used his natural weapons of cunning, skill and speed to create opportunities for England but his teammates struggled to adjust and many moves broke down.

Despite having much less possession the Irish made it count to snatch victory.

Armitage’s rib injury looks likely to keep him out of Saturday’s match in Edinburgh, opening the door for former Chester RUFC player Foden – now with Northampton Saints – to play an even greater role in England’s Six Nations campaign.

“We said two weeks ago that it’s all about small margins,” said Johnson.

“If you add up the errors and silly penalties, they’ve cost us in the end.”