Ollie Chessum made his long awaited return to Gallagher Premiership action in Sunday’s 17-point, 19-36, win over Bristol Bears.
The England international last featured in the league back in October and was initially named to return in Round 13, against Saracens a fortnight ago, but failed a late fitness test, which meant two more weeks on the sideline.
He played the full 80 minutes in the Easter Sunday showdown with the Bears and, when speaking after the match, was quick to avoid making the moment about him.
“I’m delighted to be back. But, more so, delighted with that performance today because we owed that to the fans back home and owed it to ourselves for the work we have put in lately.”
“We all know that we haven’t showed the best versions of ourselves in recent weeks and so today was a reminder to our fans of what we can do.”
On the game, Chessum believes there is still more to come from he and his teammates during The Run In.
“It wasn’t perfect by any stretch, there was a lot today that we can do better as well,” he said.
“But, what it was, was a squad effort; everyone in the changing room now and every player in the squad who wasn’t here today contributed to that win.”
Pressed again to chat about his stint on the sidelines, the Leicester lock said: “It has been a frustrating season for me and frustrating few weeks, chomping at the bit to get back involved.”
“I haven’t had the chances to play for the club this season that I would have wanted, I love representing this club and so want to be out there every chance I get.”
On the return of Chessum, Cheika added: “It’s not just his quality he brings on the field that is great to have back but, in terms off the team, he has a strong voice and important leadership role.”
“At this point of the season, in the position we are in fighting for a play off place and playing knockout rugby every weekend, it’s great to have his leadership back. It’s vital.”
Looking ahead to the remaining fixtures and knockout like feel that will come with the final four rounds before the play offs begin, Chessum said it was important to keep the focus on the next challenge, not the entire challenge.
“The only thing matters to us is the next team in front of us,” he said.
“For the last ten days, it has been Bristol. Now that’s done, so the only thing matters from this moment is Harlequins.
“We have got a short turn around and so need to move on, get ready for next weekend and prepare the best we can again to take on Harlequins in front of a sold out Mattioli Woods Welford Road on Saturday.”
More than 23,000 tickets have been sold for next Saturday's Gallagher Premiership fixture at Mattioli Woods Welford Road which doubles as this season's JTC Takeover Day.
Spaces at the crucial clash with Harlequins are filling up fast. Make The Obvious Choice and get your ticket sorted now before it's too late.
