South Africa winger Bryan Habana has claimed that England are making a mistake by not considering Steffon Armitage for selection.

Habana, who plays alongside Armitage for Toulon, believes that the Rugby Football Union's policy of not picking overseas-based players is preventing Stuart Lancaster from bringing in a flanker who would improve the current side.

"Steffon is an exceptional player, has had a fantastic year and has played a massive role in the success Toulon have achieved over the last two seasons," the Springboks winger told reporters.

"He's playing a brand of rugby that means he should be selected but at this stage England are adhering to their protocols. It's sad that a player of his calibre isn't getting exposed at international level.

"He definitely wouldn't let that England jersey down, but unfortunately he chose that option a couple of years ago and has to live by his decision."

England host South Africa at Twickenham on Saturday afternoon.