Drugs shame prop forward Matt Stevens has signalled his intent to help England (16/1 Outright) try to overcome the odds at the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

The 27-year-old is currently banned after testing positive for cocaine in December 2008, but he is set to sign for Saracens once his two-year suspension ends in January next year.

Stevens would then have to prove he has lost none of his fitness or strength at the coal face in the front row, and also hope he is selected for the squad travelling to New Zealand for the showpiece which is due to start on September 9, 2011.

The former Bath tight-head admits he has a lot of hurdles to overcome, but is determined to give it his best shot as he looks to add to his 32 England caps.

Stevens told the BBC: “For my own sanity that has got to be the goal.

“I’d like to play in the next World Cup but obviously there’s a lot against me.

“But I’ll be prepared and hopefully with the training I’m doing right now I will be in a position that I will be in the best shape of my life, so I’m going to give it every chance I can.”

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