Cexile for 18 months after being tormented by New Zealand's Ma'a Nonu during his last Test appearance.
The 29-year-old has amassed more than 250 points in 31 England appearances but thought he would struggle to return to the fold following that chastening display.
But England head coach Martin Johnson has picked Hodgson and Danny Cipriani in an England Saxons squad that will face Ireland A on January 31 and Italy A seven days later.
"It was a surprise to be selected," Hodgson said.
"I had not had any contact from England for a while and I wasn't really expecting anything to come of it, so I was delighted to hear the news.
"At the end of the day, your form can change, but overall I've been pleased with how things have been going.
"I am happy and just enjoying my rugby, and probably that has been the big factor for me.
