Fit and hungry Stringer itching to pull on blue and gold shirt - The Worcester Observer

Fit and hungry Stringer itching to pull on blue and gold shirt

Worcester Editorial 27th Jul, 2017   0

NEW WARRIORS scrum-half Peter Stringer admitted it was a ‘no- brainer’ to make the move to Sixways and revealed his hunger to be part of a winning environment at the club.

The 39-year-old signed a six-month deal as cover for Francois Hougaard, who is set to be away on international duty with South Africa at the start of the season.

Stringer said countryman and former Munster teammate Donncha O’Callaghan and a string of other personnel at the club lured him to Sixways.

“I had spoken at great length with Donncha about the prospect of joining the club and I have a great working relationship with (director of rugby) Gary Gold, having played under him at Newcastle and Bath. Knowing he was keen to get me over to Worcester made it a no-brainer,” said Stringer.




“I’ve also worked with Sam Vesty (backs coach) and some of the other guys in the past and they’ve all spoken very highly of the place. I just can’t wait to get stuck in now and crack on with the season.”

The number nine, who played 98 Tests for Ireland, insists he still has a lot to offer the game in his 40th year and is itching to get back out on the field after a two-year stint with Sale Sharks.


“It’s always been my ambition (to play rugby). It’s never crossed my mind (to retire). It’s difficult to make that decision when I still love the game and feel fit and in really good shape. If you’re looking for reasons to retire, I can’t see any,” Stringer added.

“I’m probably fitter than I was when I started. In the last four to five years I’ve concentrated on every element of my life as regards to diet and sleep. It’s taken me to whole new level and prolonged my career.

“Donncha is one of the fittest guys I’ve come across and the two of us have never had a drink of alcohol, so maybe that’s something to do with it.

“I just love the game and can only ever envision myself playing rugby. I’m a little bit obsessed with it and can see myself playing into my 40s.

“I’ll be the first person to admit when it’s time (to retire), but I feel great and want to work hard and improve my game. I’ve come to Worcester to win games and be a part of a winning environment.”

Warriors will conclude their pre-season schedule with the visit of Munster on Thursday, August 24.

Stringer, who began his professional career with the Guinness Pro 12 side in 1998 and recorded 230 appearances across 15 years for his hometown club, admits it will be more than just a pre-season friendly to him.

“I’ve never come up against Munster before, so it’ll be a nice reunion and I’m very exciting for it. It’ll be a big game as I still know a few of the guys there,” he added.

“They’ve made huge progress in the last few years and to come up against them again after playing for them for so long will be great.”

Online Editions

Catch up on your local news by reading our e-editions on the Worcester Observer.

Recruitment

Find a career you'll love with our free career finder website.

Business Directory

From plumbers, to restaurants, we can provide you with all the info you need.

Reader Travel

Check out all of the latest reader travel offers to get your hands on some free gifts.