Leicester Tigers back George Worth reveals it was only through circumstance that he was handed his first opportunity at full-back – but he’s excited to wear the No13 shirt once again this weekend.
The 23-year-old has put together a number of appearances in the back three so far this season, but will start at outside centre for Tigers’ European Challenge Cup clash with Cardiff Blues this Sunday, January 12 (3.15pm).
And Worth, in an exclusive interview for the latest edition of the club’s matchday magazine, explains how he rose the ranks as a centre – before a chance switch to full-back.
“When I was a bit younger and playing in Norfolk, and even the early stages in the academy, I was playing week-in, week-out at centre,” he says.
“Then, there was one game in the Under-18s league and our full-back happened to be ill. My coach at the time, Tosh [Tony Askew] put me there and I had a good game.
“That was just a string that was added to my bow, and now most of my opportunities in the first team have come at full-back!”
The Peterborough-born player also opens up on the influence of head coach Geordan Murphy and mentor Mathew Tait.
Worth continues: “Obviously with Geordie being the player that he was, now the head coach, has helped me massive amounts.
“Taity was a centre and full-back as well, and he told me how important it was to be able to do both.
“He said ‘it’ll get you in the team, a place on the bench, a starting role’, and having that versatility is important – and I like to think that’s showing at the moment.”
Read more form Worth in the latest edition of the club’s 100-page matchday programme available this weekend, as the supporter-turned-player discusses childhood heroes, an early memory of Welford Road – earlier than you might think – and his hunger for success.
There’s also regular features including ‘From the Touchline’ with head coach Geordan Murphy and match notes from chairman Peter Tom CBE, plus a breakdown of the state of play in the European Challenge Cup.
You can also catch up on the latest from the club’s development pathway, community and Foundation teams plus the Junior Tigers Club.
Pick up your copy of the matchday programme for just £3, available around the ground in the build-up to Sunday’s game.
