Philippe Saint-Andre believes Charlie Hodgson will be the player of the Six Nations.
Sale boss Philippe Saint-Andre believes Charlie Hodgson is now the finished article and will be the player of the tournament in the Six Nations.
The fly-half has been in excellent form for the Sharks this year and is certain to start for England when they face Wales at Twickenham.
Hodgson's coach at club level has little doubt that the number 10 will blossom in the international arena as he looks to help Andy Robinson's team erase the memories of their disappointing campaign in 2005.
The 25-year-old struggled for England in last year's tournament as he felt the pressure of filling in for the injured Jonny Wilkinson.
Saint-Andre feels things will be different this time round after seeing Hodgson develop into the complete player over the last 12 months.
"He is a fantastic playmaker, and I believe he can be the player of the Six Nations," said the Frenchman.
"If you had spoken to me this time last year, I would have said Charlie wasn't the final article. Now though, he is the final article.
"I think his confidence has grown a lot. Over the past 18 months, he has played some tough games for Sale, England and the Lions, and he has so much more experience."
Hodgson's biggest downfall during last year's tournament was his poor kicking as Wilkinson's shadow loomed large over him everytime he stepped up to strike the ball towards the posts.
However, Saint-Andre is certain the Sale man will shine with the boot after some confident performances in the Autumn internationals.
"His kicking is fantastic, and he is very confident," he said.
"He played well in the November internationals, and as a fly-half, you need experience, which is something he has gained during the past 18 months."
