Worcester Sport
Gray has Goode and Carlisle in his sights for Warriors’ fly-half spot
12:00pm Saturday 11th February 2012
HAVING done enough to earn a new Worcester Warriors deal, third-choice fly-half Danny Gray has set his sights on moving up the Sixways pecking order.
The former Bristol half-back joined Warriors from French outfit Montauban and, despite being a bit-part player in his first year, impressed head coach Richard Hill with his attitude and was given a one-year contract extension.
Although he has played second fiddle to Andy Goode and Joe Carlisle for the majority of his time at Sixways, Gray insists he is enjoying being at Worcester.
He said: “The move has been really good for me and my aim on coming back from France was to take the opportunity as best I could and be in a position where I could hopefully stay.
“I always knew it was going to be difficult this season with Goodey and Joey — they are established number 10s at the club.
“I knew it would need time and I’m happy with how I’ve settled.
“I have pushed them and now it is a case of waiting for opportunities.”
Gray added: “The French experience helped me learn a lot but, coming back here, you appreciate everything so much more.
“Especially as a 10, being over in France is like having one of your senses taken away with the communication. Being at Worcester has made a big difference to me.
“Each time you get an opportunity you try and make a statement.
“I want to play as much as I can and especially at home so the supporters can see me.
“A lot of my games have been in the ‘A’ League on Monday nights and in Europe, but I have really enjoyed it all and I’m now looking forward to kicking on.
“It’s great to see the work and effort you put in during the week is recognised.
“Hilly has always been a big fan of hard work and I knew, when coming here, if I put the work in then it would be rewarded.”