JONNY Wilkinson will put his heart and soul into proving he is worthy of a place in the British Lions squad.

The Newcastle fly-half was left out of Sir Clive Woodward's 44-man party for the forthcoming tour of New Zealand when it was named on Monday.

Woodward has, however, left the door open for Wilkinson to receive a late call-up if he proves his fitness between now and the end of the season.

Wilkinson has not played international rugby since he inspired England to World Cup glory in 2003, but could tour if he returns to form for Newcastle Falcons.

The player, informed of the decision last week, said while disappointed at not receiving an immediate call-up he was determined to make sure he was on the plane.

After speaking with Woodward, Wilkinson, set to return to action on Friday after a lay-off with a knee ligament injury, said he felt "comfortable" with where he was, but knew he still had a lot to prove.

"You have to accept that some things are out of your control, such as selection, and concentrate on controlling what you can do," he said. "It would, of course, have been a different story if I had a played a full season. But that's not the case. I am looking forward to attacking the last few games of the season. It gives me even more incentive - that's if I needed one."

Wilkinson, who has been beset by injuries of one sort or another this season, said he was looking forward to playing without having something to worry about.

"I am not sure yet whether I will be playing against Northampton on Friday," he said. "I have a few things to check out. I am pretty happy with where I am fitness-wise. I am trying to be sensible and make good decisions."

While saying taking part in the Lions tour was not the be all and end all, Wilkinson said being part of a successful touring side was one of his ambitions.

"If you ask anyone about the biggest things in a rugby career they will tell you World Cups, Lions tours and grand slams," he said. "Certainly on my list of things I want to do before I finish playing is to be part of a winning Lions team.

"The Lions are a big reason why we play the game. It is a huge honour for those who have been selected.

"It is something I have got to fight for."