Writing in Friday's programme notes ahead of the engage Super League clash against Celtic Crusaders, Mr McManus condemned England coach Tony Smith's suggestion that an Overseas All Stars team would give his squad a better test than the French who, forced to field a much weakened team due to injuries a few weeks ago, were crushed 66-12 in Paris.

The Saints' supremo described Aussie Smith's proposal as "nonsense", adding: "I am more than a little concerned at the suggestion that a mid-season international against France should be replaced by a Super League All Stars team.

"Firstly, this would be a huge insult to the French as a mid-season game is as much about improving and developing the French international side and hence the wider international game as it is to give our national side a hit out.

"Secondly, international rugby is all about pride in your country and pride in the shirt and is the ultimate honour.

"This would be totally missing from the collective team and would totally devalue the game, only serving to highlight rather than solve the lack of breadth and depth at international level.

"Finally, a mix of Super League opposition would deny the regular league rounds of yet more players and make a total mockery of the competition that weekend.

"I am just surprised that senior and influential people in the game have suggested this."

A few months ago Mr McManus also blasted the end-of-season play-off system.

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