RYAN WILSON missed the start of the season because he was partying in the Big Apple, but the veteran Glasgow Warriors back-rower insists that he is as committed to the cause as ever and is determined to push his way back into the starting XV. He also reckons he has another four-years left at the sharp end of the game.
“I missed the Treviso game as it was my best mate’s wedding in New York,” explained the 33-year-old. “But I’d spoken about it with the coaches from quite early on and when Franco [Smith] came in as head coach I had to check with him and he was happy with it. I’ve missed plenty of important occasions over my 13 years here but that was a special one, best man at a wedding.
“Then it was a nightmare getting back actually, delayed and missed flights and all sorts. I was meant to land on the day of the Queen’s funeral and that had a knock-on effect on all flights. So, I ended up getting back on the Tuesday and the way that we train we have big days on Monday and Tuesday so missing those had an effect on the Cardiff game that I missed.”
Wilson returned to the match-day squad for last weekend’s away match to the Ospreys and while he has no problem being behind 21-year-old Gregor Brown, who was making only his third start for the club, he doesn’t plan to make a habit of it.
“I realise the transition we’re in and Franco needs to see players play as well,” he said. “Gregor hasn’t played a huge amount of games at this level but I know what he can do, and I think he’s going to be a fantastic player.
“But I’m not ready to step back yet. I always joke that I’ll go for another four years, easy. There’s four years in this old body yet. So, I’ll be pushing and trying to be in the team as much as possible this season. And when I get my opportunity, hopefully I take it.”
As it happens, an early injury suffered by Jack Dempsey meant that Wilson played 70 minutes on a demoralising night for the Warriors when they suffered 32-17 defeat. He’s hoping to be involved again this coming Saturday when the Bulls will provide the opposition at Scotstoun.
“It’s a big old Bulls team and they’re tough to go over there and play against but we’ve got that little added bonus when we’re at home with the crowd behind us,” he added. “Hopefully, we can sell a few more tickets again and get this place sold out and jumping.”
