FORMER Thurrock Rugby Club star Mike Stanley could face England at Twickenham on Saturday.

Stanley has become an international for Samoa who England face this weekend.

He made his debut in a 24-13 defeat to Italy and then played last weekend at fly half as the Samoans beat Canada.

Stanley kicked 13 points in a 23-13 win.

Stanley, who qualifies for Samoa through his father, said: “It was amazing to get called into the Samoa squad and it certainly wasn’t something I was expecting.

“Playing against England would be extremely exciting for me.

“Obviously I grew up in England so playing against England would be a massive achievement and honour for me.

“They have world class players right across the board so testing yourself against them will be one of the highest challenges.

“Playing at Twickenham will be surreal but at the end of the day I need to not let the occasion cloud what I’m trying to do and that is to perform for Samoa.”

Stanley has caught the eye playing in New Zealand.

He initially played in Auckland before moving to Counties Manukau this season where he is coached by former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga who Stanley feels has improved his all round game.

“Tana really helped me develop my game and look at things from a different point of view,” said Stanley.

“I personally feel it’s been the best career move to date and it’s made this call up happen.”

Stanley will now aim to stay in the squad and play a part in next season’s Rugby World Cup.

Samoa have been drawn in the same group as South Africa and Scotland.

And Stanley would love to be involved.

“The World Cup is only next year so we are all playing for spots, especially the new guys,” said Stanley.

“But I'm just trying to take in as much information as I can from the players around me and try to better my game.”