The 30-year-old flanker visited his old Oakham School stamping ground yesterday (Wednesday) to promote his charity work.

Moody is working with a cause which supports African children affected by Aids.

He was in good spirits after shaking off the Achilles and hip injuries which have sidelined him at the start of this season.

Moody made his first Guinness Premiership start on Saturday in Leicester's 25-21 defeat at Bath.

He is now hoping to impress new England manager Martin Johnson – a former club and international team-mate – ahead of the Six Nations opener against Italy at Twickenham on February 7.

Moody told the Rutland Times: "I'm so glad to be back – I've been miserable because I've not been able to play.

"I've spoken to Johnno and I should be fit for the Six Nations if selected.

"I was picked in the original 30 for the Autumn internationals and it has been disappointing not to play.

"It's an exciting time for England with all the changes and I want to be part of it."

Moody, who grew up in Ketton, has enjoyed a glittering England career since making his international debut in 2001.

He was a member of the World Cup winning squad two years later in Australia. Moody also played in last year's World Cup final defeat by South Africa.

Recent home defeats by Australia and South Africa showed the new England regime still has a very long way to go.

Moody is confident Johnson can turn round England's recent poor form but he said: "It was always going to be a difficult job.

"As Clive Woodward showed, nothing happens in one season.
"It took seven years to win a Grand Slam and a World Cup."

There have been some advantages to being injured.

Moody has been able to work on events for his joint-testimonial year with Tigers team-mate Geordan Murphy, the Ireland full back.

The Rutlander has also spent time with his new son Dylan.

"It's been really great having time with him, especially as he is my first child," added Moody.

A special report on Moody's charity work with HOPEHIV, and his visit to Oakham School, will be in next week's Rutland Times.