LONDON Irish wing Alex Lewington is taking inspiration from schoolmate Greig Tonks as he sets his sights on an England call.

The pair both attended Nottingham High School, and with Tonks back in the Scottish set-up, Lewington wants to match his mate’s achievements.

Lewington, who turned 26 yesterday (Wednesday), revealed: “To play for England would undoubtedly be the pinnacle of my career. Greig told me how special it is to play on the international stage and that’s what I’m aspiring to.

“At the moment I’m fully focussed on London Irish and I want to help the team move up the Premiership table, starting with the game against Northampton.

“If I continue to improve my game, then I’ll improve my chances of playing for England.”

Speaking of his friendship with Tonks, Lewington added: “I’ve known Greig since my school days, so it’s great to be playing at London Irish together.

“He called me a couple of weeks before he arrived at the club last year, and we now regularly hang out away from the club.”

London Irish host Northampton in the Aviva Premiership on Sunday (3pm).