Dean Richards has hit back at Brian Ashton after the England boss dumped scrum-half Andy Gomarsall from his Six Nations squad.

Ashton dropped Gomarsall ahead of England's 24-13 win in France on Saturday, claiming the Quins star had lost his spark'.

But Quins' director of rugby reckons Gomarsall has had a raw deal.

"It has been difficult for Andy," he said.

"When you get your country to a World Cup final, everybody is hailing you as a hero.

"People need to realise that he is 33 and his experience is absolutely vital to us.

"I don't think he has lost his spark - if you had seen him in training this week, you would have seen a guy that was as motivated as ever."

But Richards admits that the form of Danny Care closer to home means Gomarsall faces a major fight to recapture Quins' number nine shirt.

Care played a starring role in Sunday's 15-6 win at Saracens and, if he keeps impressing, he may be selected ahead of the World Cup hero.

"Danny is playing very well and it suits our style of play," said Richards.

"He offers us a huge amount around the fringes.

"He is in form, he is playing well and there is no reason for us to change."

Quins' victory at Vicarage Road, courtesy of tries from Chris Robshaw and Ugo Monye, backed up last week's win over Worcester.

With Gloucester visiting the Stoop on Saturday, Richards insisted his side will enter the game with confidence.

"We felt we had to back up last week and some of the quality in the first half was fantastic," said Richards.

"There's a huge amount of talent here and everybody is enjoying themselves.

"We still have a huge amount of confidence and there is a real buzz about the side."