Armitage may go French

Paris - Overlooked by England despite his brilliant form for Toulon, Steffon Armitage could be handed the chance to resurrect his international career with France.

The French Rugby Federation has included Armitage on a 10-man list of "foreign players potentially eligible" for the national team.

Armitage won five caps for England in 2009-10, but moved to France in 2011 after missing out on selection under then-England coach Martin Johnson.

He has starred for Toulon over the last three seasons, and was voted as the European player of the year after helping the southern club retain the Heineken Cup in May.

Armitage, though, continues to be overlooked by England as the Rugby Football Union only selects overseas-based players in extraordinary circumstances.

Armitage qualifies for France on residency grounds, but will need to play for Les Bleus in an Olympic sevens event to then be eligible for their 15-man team.