INSIDE centre is the preferred choice of position for Worcester Warriors’ Super Rugby star Jackson Willison.

But the 27-year-old New Zealander acknowledges competition will be fierce for the number 12 jersey at Sixways this season.

Ryan Mills wore the shirt with distinction last term and inside centre is the position England coach Eddie Jones publicly favours for Ben Te’o.

“I prefer 12 but for me it has always been about the team first and foremost,” said Willison.

“There have been a few times recently when I’ve played at 13 and that is probably my second preference in terms of position, but the team is the most important thing.

“I always adopt the attitude that, no matter where you are in a rugby team, there will always be competition.

“Putting the competition to one side, we can make each other better players.

“I haven’t thought too much about it. I was a month behind the rest of the lads so I need to get up to speed with fitness, strength and learning the game plan.

“Rugby is second nature to me so hopefully it should not take too long.”

Willison played for Chiefs in Super Rugby from 2009 until 2012 and was part of the title-winning squad in 2012.

He was then selected for the Maori All Blacks and moved to Blues before spending two “frustrating” seasons in France.

“Coming to Worcester was a call I made for the purpose of my rugby,” he explained.

“I had a few frustrations in France in terms of the rugby side so it was for my rugby development.

“It’s slightly forward-orientated, unfortunately, but Grenoble played a lot through the backs.

“However, the overall picture, the coaching set-up and the calibre of the players at Warriors is different.

“The facilities are the most obvious difference between Worcester and the other clubs I’ve been at.

“I have never been exposed to it and it’s something I play rugby for – the strength and conditioning and medical side.”

Winning the Super Rugby crown is a proud achievement for Willison, who is looking to get his career back on track.

“I moved overseas not long after winning the Super Rugby title and I didn’t really appreciate it at the time,” he recalled.

“I think I am in a similar position that I found myself in after 2012 when I joined Blues and was part of a team that was rebuilding. I feel we are slightly ahead at Worcester.

“I have got some leadership and experience in different environments but the biggest strength I have is I am looking to improve my rugby.

“We have brought in some top recruits to help the squad which already has a strong base and, along with the coaching staff, the place has a bright future.”