ENGLAND and Worcester Warriors full-back Chris Pennell must learn to “manage himself differently” to remain in tip-top condition, according to director of rugby Dean Ryan.
Pennell played in every minute of Warriors’ relegation campaign from the Premiership last season but was not in the squad for Saturday’s 23-7 home win over Moseley.
He was off-colour in the opening 23-19 Championship defeat at Bristol and knocked off the ball for Andy Short’s try.
“I didn’t think he was fully fit last week,” said Ryan. “Chris has got to learn to manage himself differently. He’s an international rugby player now.
“When he goes for international duty, he’s got to go well. I don’t think anyone would ever doubt Chris’ attitude about wanting to play.
“But I think he now has to understand, as an international player, he needs to be 100 per cent right. I didn’t think he was last week.
“We need to manage Chris so he keeps being the shining light he has been and stays fit.”
The Warriors boss said he would be giving Warriors’ young players a chance this term.
“We have too much youth across the squad to not give them an opportunity,” added Ryan.
“To start Christian Scotland-Williamson was a big call — we all know we wanted to get off to a good start.
“I’m really pleased we were able to do that — and come away with a win. But we have to be better and smarter.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here