Danny Care determined to take latest England chance

Danny Care, the Harlequins scrum-half, says his focus has shifted back to what he does best – playing rugby – after taking his eye off the ball (Getty Images)

Danny Care claims it feels "weird" to be a newcomer in the England squad again but is determined not to squander his latest chance.

The controversial Harlequins scrum-half was dropped for this year's RBS 6 Nations by new head coach Stuart Lancaster after a series of off-field incidents.

In his absence Lancaster rebuilt the national side after the disaster of last year's World Cup and Care has found the mood on his return markedly different.

With 32 caps, Care is one of the more experienced members of the squad in South Africa for this month's three-Test series but he almost feels like a rookie.

The 25-year-old said: "It has felt a bit weird being the new boy again.

"But it is great to come into the squad, it is a young and exciting squad.

"I think the culture has changed quite a lot, I have noticed a big difference.

"You can really see what it means to be picked for England and what a massive honour it is. No one is going to take that for granted."

With Ben Youngs having started Saturday's opening Test loss to the Springboks in Durban and Lee Dickson on the bench, Lancaster has made clear Care must still earn a recall.

But Care, who finished the season in fine form for Quins, will get the opportunity to underline his credentials when he features in tomorrow's tour match against the Southern Barbarians in Kimberley.

PA