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Shane Geraghty has made an irresistible case to run England's back division alongside Jonny Wilkinson in the autumn Tests, according to Northampton rugy director Jim Mallinder.

Geraghty, currently part of the England Saxons squad, is an obvious replacement for injured British and Irish Lions centre Riki Flutey.

"(England boss) Martin (Johnson) has got to decide where to play Shane, and if so where," Mallinder said after Geraghty starred in the 31-27 Heineken Cup win over Munster.

"I have no hesitation in playing him in either position, at number 10 or 12. We have seen Shane play at U20 level for England and throughout the age groups, and he is a special talent."

Johnson has yet to announce who will fill vacancies created by shoulder injuries to Flutey and full-back Delon Armitage in the senior squad for November appointments with Australia, Argentina and New Zealand.

But Geraghty, equally adept at fly-half or centre, surely cannot be ignored.

Johnson looked on at Franklin's Gardens as Geraghty guided Saints to a memorable Heineken Cup success against twice European champions Munster.

His 21-point haul from a try, four penalties and two conversions underpinned Northampton's gripping 31-27 victory - and surely confirmed a starting spot when England face Australia on November 7.

Mallinder added: "What he did (against Munster) was to back up a number of very good performances for us this season. It was probably his best performance for us.

"He made a lot of good options in attack, and he can see where space is. He's a real threat to defenders."

PA Sport