As he looks to play his way back into first team contention following an untimely injury, Tom Stephenson says the opportunity to play for the Wanderers cannot be underestimated.
The centre started the first Aviva Premiership game of the season at Worcester but missed the following weekend with a niggle and has since been working hard to put himself back in the match day picture.
“It’s been a bit of a wait for these games to come around,” Stephenson said. “The LV= Cup is usually a chance for the younger players or those on the fringes to show what they can do, but obviously this year we knew we weren't going to have that.
“It makes those Wanderers games an even bigger opportunity for players like myself to really try and push on.”
While the Academy graduate is still only 21 years of age, 40 senior appearances in the black, green and gold made him one of the most experienced players on show this past Monday night against Gloucester. It is something that brings with it added responsibility.
“It’s nice to take that senior role with the Wanderers, but obviously I’d rather be playing at the weekend! But when I do get that chance to play on a Monday night, and be more of a leader, it’s obviously something I really look forward to.”
The Wanderers are next in Aviva 'A' League action on December 21st, away at Leicester, before a home tie with Worcester in the New Year, the Warriors visiting the Gardens on Monday, January 4th.
