England can continue to rely on James Haskell in the Six Nations © Getty Images

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Players/Officials: James Haskell

Tournaments/Tours: Six Nations | French Top 14

Teams: England | Stade Français

James Haskell has sided with England in his club versus country row, telling his French club Stade Francais that they have misunderstood clauses in his contract that allow his release for international duty.

Haskell released a statement on Monday night in an effort to set the record straight after England and Stade officials had argued publicly about his abandonment of his club to play in his country's Six Nations campaign.

It's the RFU who appear to be in the right, after Haskell concurred with their view that his club contract contains provisions freeing him up to play for England when called upon.

Stade Francais had wanted Haskell back in Paris for Saturday's Top 14 clash with Toulouse, but England claimed they were not obliged to release him.

Haskell's statement said: "There has been so much erroneous comment regarding my contract with Stade Francais that I feel I need to address the issue.

"The contract contains confidentiality clauses which I am bound to observe but I can say that the matter of my release for international duty and training is specifically provided for and I regret that there has been a misunderstanding with the club regarding this.

"I will be meeting with Stade Francais once the Six Nations has been completed in an endeavour to resolve this misunderstanding and to ensure there is no more confusion in the future. I would like to make it clear that Stade Francais have been very good to me and I am very happy in Paris. I am looking forward to playing for Stade Francais again at the conclusion of the Six Nations.

"Obviously, like any sportsman, the ultimate honour for me is to represent my country. I am now looking forward to putting this issue behind me so that my career can flourish at club and international level."

Haskell is set to be named in the England team to play Scotland when manager Martin Johnson announces his selection on Tuesday. Ironically, Haskell was unable to train for most of last week anyway after becoming the latest England to be hit by a stomach bug.