Director of Rugby Alan Solomons spoke to the media today ahead of Saturday’s European Challenge Cup match against Enisei-STM at Sixways.
Here’s what Alan had to say:
On Michael Fatialofa’s injury
- Michael is still in intensive care and his condition remains serious.
- He’s in good hands and he has the support of the entire club – owners, players and staff – as well as the whole rugby community.
- Everyone’s thoughts and prayers are with Michael and his family.
- Michael is a very well thought of. He’s a popular member of the squad and he is very highly-regarded by the other players.
On the Saracens match
- You have got to give full marks to Saracens. They were outstanding and they were on top of us throughout the game.
- There are some harsh lessons to be learnt from the match. Rugby is a collision sport and Saracens certainly won the collisions on the day.
- They got onto the front foot, they won quick ball and they were clinical in their finishing.
Will you rotate the side for Enisei?
- Some of the lads will play again but there will be changes and opportunities will be given to some of our younger players.
- In order to give ourselves a chance of reaching the quarter-finals we are going to need a bonus point win in each of our two remaining pool matches.
- The focus really has to be on our game and making sure that we get our performance right.
Injuries
- Ryan Mills suffered a bruised foot against Saracens. It’s not as bad as we initially feared.
- Conor Carey ruptured an Achilles tendon at Saracens.
- Sam Lewis suffered a suspected fractured cheekbone at Saracens.
- Callum Black is going to see a specialist about a foot problem.
- Duncan Weir has had dental work done but his jaw is still painful.
- Nick Schonert has trained today and he may be required to be on the bench on Saturday because we are running short of tightheads.
- Cornell du Preez is coming on well and he should be fit to face Castres next week.
- Perry Humphreys took a knock to the ankle but he should be fine against Castres.