Prop star Olivier Sourgens has revealed he is enjoying every second of his English rugby experience – with the big Frenchman fast developing cult hero status with Worcester Warriors fans.
Vastly experienced tight-head prop Sourgens joined Warriors from French outfit Bordeaux-Bègles for the 2009/10 Guinness Premiership campaign.
Sourgens, who has played six times for France A, enjoyed a 14-year club rugby career in France with spells for Bordeaux-Bègles, Stade Montois, Pau and Bourgoin before making the move across the English Channel.
And the front rower has revealed how well he has settled into the English lifestyle and how the Sixways fans have made him feel right at home.
“The biggest difference is it is more cold,” smiled Sourgens, whose English continues to improve with every week.
“We spend a long time in the snow, but the training indoor is good for work and the food here is a good surprise.
“The fans are good to me. When I come to the stadium they ask me if I play and I say yes. They are happy when I say I start so that makes me happy.
“I have really enjoyed playing here for a good team,” he added. “I have worked hard on my physicality and I feel I am now fitting in with Worcester.
“I feel I am getting better week after week with my fitness. The derby was good to play in, just disappointed that the game was hit by the late try. I feel happy to be part of a good scrum on that day.”
Sourgens, 37, is now set to line-up for Warriors against his countrymen tonight when Worcester tackle Montpellier in the Amlin Challenge Cup (kick-off 8pm local time).
“Montpellier has a good side and it is a game for good play and work on defence,” added Sourgens.
“They have a beautiful stadium that is new for the last World Cup so we must enjoy. I am happy to play there. It means I will see some family too, I will stay the weekend to see my kids and parents.”