Chris Ashton is about to make an England rugby union debut against France the former international rugby league wing admits might never have happened.
Ashton made an immediate impact following his cross-code switch in 2007 from Wigan to Northampton, then playing in English rugby union's second division, and his record-breaking 39 tries helped the Saints return to the elite Premiership.
But Ashton then started to struggle against better opposition, so much so he even contemplated a return to the 13-a-side game.
However, Northampton coach and former England union fly-half Paul Grayson kept faith.
Grayson's confidence has been rewarded with Ashton's tally of 19 tries in 25 matches so far this season for the Midlands club.
"I didn't think I would get this chance," said Ashton, who will replace injured Harlequins wing Ugo Monye at the Stade de France on Saturday.
"Last year I was a bit lost in everything. I had been playing in Division One and I couldn't stop myself scoring tries," the 22-year-old recalled.
"I stepped up into the Premiership and was expecting to hit the ground running but that didn't happen.
"At one point I was quite serious (about returning to league). I thought there was no way back.
"For someone who expects a lot from themselves it was frustrating but Grayson always said 'stick with it, your chance will come'.
"Thinking back, it probably couldn't have worked out any better for me. I had the time to actually figure out this rugby union game and make it work."
By coincidence, Ashton's England rugby league debut was also against France at Headingley, the home of Super League champions Leeds, in 2006.
But whereas France are league minnows their union counterparts are a major force and 'Les Bleus' will be gunning for a Six Nations Grand Slam against England on Saturday.
Ashton though will have the comfort of having a familiar face alongside him in Northampton full-back Ben Foden, who is set to make his first Test start after a couple of impressive displays off the bench this Six Nations.
"We've had some good form together with Northampton so hopefully we can cause a bit of damage," Foden said.
The Saints duo certainly have the potential to liven up an England back division that has all too often been laboured this Six Nations.
Foden angered England manager Martin Johnson when he said he he was "livid" at being overlooked during the November international programme.
But he has got his chance now after England dropped Delon Armitage following last week's try-less 15-15 draw with Scotland.
"I'm definitely ready for it," said the 24-year-old Foden.
"It's a big stage to be on, taking on the Six Nations leaders who are going for a Grand Slam in their back garden.
"I have to use my head and read when it is on to run and when to kick. I am ready to make those decisions."
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