Gomarsall relishes challenge

Gomarsall: Moved to Leeds

I love playing in the Guinness Premiership, it gets better every year with the increasing interest in the game.

Andy Gomarsall
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World Cup winner Andy Gomarsall has admitted that his love of the Premiership was a key reason behind his decision to join Leeds Carnegie.

The 35-year-old scrum-half has joined the Premiership new-boys from Harlequins - and he is looking to make the most of his time left in the game.

Gomarsall, who has also played for London Wasps, Bedford, Gloucester and Worcester, said: "I spoke to a lot of people who have been mentors for me during my career and they all told me that you are a long time retired.

"I have turned 35 this summer but I have had some time off since finishing with Quins and I feel refreshed and looking forward to the new season.

"I love playing in the Guinness Premiership, it gets better every year with the increasing interest in the game. Last year the games at Twickenham and Stade de France with Quins were incredible experiences and it shows the growing support for the game.

Talented

"Hopefully we can attract the crowds to Headingley Carnegie next year and give the fans a team that they can be proud of. Leeds have got a lot of young, talented players and I am looking forward to working with them.

"I made a promise to myself early in my career that if ever I had the opportunity help younger players then I would because that was not always the case for me.

"I know that Andy Key and Neil Back have got a great vision for the club and the infrastructure here is first class so everything is in place for us to be successful and hopefully that will be the case once the season starts."

Gomarsall won 35 caps for England and Leeds director of rugby Andy Key believes his experience will be crucial.

"Andy is a player with a proven track record of success," said Key.

"He has experience of performing at the very highest level and that will make him a key addition to our squad."