Hodgson: Masterclass in Brussels

Goode gave his assessment after watching him orchestrate Saracens' 30-13 Heineken Cup victory over Racing Metro.

Hodgson gave a masterclass in every department at King Baudouin Stadium on Saturday as he continues to produce some of the finest rugby of his career.

England coach Stuart Lancaster must choose between Toby Flood or Owen Farrell for the autumn knowing that the nation's strongest fly-half on current form entered international retirement last summer.

Goode believes England's loss is Saracens' gain as he marvels at a 31-year-old who he views as the complete package.

"Charlie's a fantastic player who has been the best 10 in the Premiership for the last 10-15 years," he said. "He's a class player who knows when and when not to play. While he can throw 30-metre passes everywhere, his kicking against Racing was fantastic.

"When it seemed like we were losing grip, he'd spiral the ball to within 10 yards of their line and put pressure on their pack.

"He's a world class player and it's great to have him on board.

"It's not for me to say if he's retired from England too early, he's got a family but he's playing his best rugby for a while.

"He's been tremendously unlucky with World Cups so none of us should say what's good for him. I'm just glad he's playing for Saracens."

Harlequins' Nick Evans may edge Hodgson as the Premiership's foremost fly-half, but Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall is still able to savour the influence of his ringmaster.

"Charlie's playing some great rugby and is playing with freedom," McCall said.

"He's one of the best passers of the ball in Europe and is playing outstandingly well at the moment."

Goode's hopes of retaining England's full-back jersey next month improved with his lively display in Brussels.

With Ben Foden sidelined by an ankle injury, he is competing with Mike Brown of Harlequins for the position in which he won both caps during last summer's tour to South Africa.

"To be capped by England was fantastic and it's key for me to be involved in the autumn. Playing well in these big European games is the key," he said.

"As a young guy you just want to be playing, especially in matches like yesterday when the ball's being thrown around and you have a smile on your face.

"I have a great role at 15 and I've been getting more involved and having more influence."

Tries from Chris Wyles, Steve Borthwick and Will Fraser and 15 points from Charlie Hodgson cemented Saracens' place at the summit of Pool One and as the best performing English club in Europe.

An estimated 2,000 supporters made the trip across The Channel for the club's first overseas home game and the enterprise was deemed a success, not least financially.

Chief executive Ed Griffiths revealed they generated more money from holding the match in front of an 18,202 crowd in Brussels than they would have done with a usual gate of 6,000 attending at Vicarage Road.

The highlight of the afternoon was supplied by hooker Schalk Brits, whose magical acceleration, hand off, side-step and off-load set up Wyles' opener.

"Schalk always wants to be in the back line! His move for Chris' try was fantastic, it shows what a class act he is - a lot of centres would love to have his ability," Goode said. "It's tough to tame him at time but he's a fantastic talent and it's great to have him in our team."