AFTER receiving December’s player of the month award and approaching his 50th appearance for the club, Warriors back row Matt Cox is looking to push his team further up the Premiership table.
The 27-year-old Redditch-born player recently scooped the Franco Florenzi Player of the Month Award – edging out full-back Ben Howard and giant lock Tevita Cavubati – after being picked by supporters for his impressive displays against Gloucester in Europe, Bath and Leicester Tigers, where he bagged his first try since returning to the club.
The flanker is also just one game away from notching his half century appearance in a Warriors jersey.
“I’m really grateful for getting the recognition from supporters in December,” said Cox.
“There’s a lot of players with key roles, they all have a job to do, but sometimes you get your head down to train hard and just keep going. It’s nice to know players, coaches and fans get behind you and back you.
“I’m really happy with being rewarded for that effort and thank you to everyone who voted.
“It’s also brilliant to finally by approaching my 50th appearance. To play 50 games for your home club is special, but I want to reach 100, that’s when I’ll be impressed. I’ve still got a good way to go to catch up with the likes of Jonny Arr, Chris Pennell and Alex Grove.
“It’s good to be back in the Premiership. From the way we’ve started this season to where we’re heading now you can see we’re just that odd decision or moment away from taking points and chasing our way up the table,” he added.
The all-action back row was a product of the club’s academy system at 15-years-old, and made his first team try-scoring debut in April 2008 against London Wasps.
As a youngster, Cox also impressed on the international stage, making his England under 19 debut as a 17-year-old in 2006 and going on to help his country win the Home Unions under 18s tournament.
Looking at the transition from academy to first team, Cox said: “There is a difference. Boys rugby compared to mens rugby has a lot of skill and you’re always learning, but when you step-up to the mens side you notice the physicality and intensity.
“I came in quite young and noticed a lot of people come and go as great youngsters, but they couldn’t step-up to the mens side. It’s a big leap,” he added.