Louis Lynagh insists that the only path to a first England cap is through top-level performances for Harlequins.

For the duration of the Six Nations, Lynagh trained with England but ultimately failed to break into Eddie Jones’ squad and was forced to settle for Premiership action with Quins.

Lynagh, who is still eligible to play for Australia through his father and former fly-half Michael, believes the experience with England was of enormous benefit ahead of a crucial end of season run-in.

“International honours and England caps will only come if I play well for Harlequins,” said the 21-year-old.

“It was a challenge coming back and forth from both camps but after that eight weeks it’s night and day from where I began. The England camp has helped me refine my game.

“I would love to play for England, and if Eddie calls me tomorrow there’s no way I say no.”

Lynagh is in line to start for a daunting Champions Cup trip to Montpellier on Sunday, with the French side the current league-leaders in the Top14.

Montpellier are renowned for their kicking game, which comes in stark contrast to Harlequins’ preference for ball-in-hand, but Lynagh is relishing the aerial challenge which awaits.

He said: “There’s nothing better than testing the skills you're meant to be good at under high pressure, especially as a young player.”

“This is the second time I’ll play in France and their fans are a different breed.

“They take it to another level and will be in your ear the whole game, so it’s about blocking out the noise and just playing the game.”

Quins head coach Tabai Matson praised Lynagh for his patience and believes that England are well aware of his qualities.

“It’s been a different year but a tough year for Louis," said Matson. 

“He’s delivered on the biggest stages. When it really matters he steps up, diffuses bombs and makes the biggest tackles.”

Matson’s team face two tricky fixtures with the French giants in the space of a week. For the first time the Champions Cup knock-out ties will be played over two legs, with Montpellier heading to Twickenham Stoop for the return fixture on Easter Saturday.

Quins come into this one having won each of their last five league games, but Matson was wary of the threat that elite European opposition will carry.

He said: “There’s so much variation in the French game, they try different things."

“We won’t beat Montpellier at their game, that’s the challenge.

“They kick the hell out of the ball and we want to run the hell out of the ball.

“It’s a conflict of philosophies so it’s going to be awesome fun. But I can’t see us being anything but positive.”