THE intense competition for places in the Worcester Warriors back-row division spurs Jake Abbott on to keep giving his all for the Sixways club.

Samoan international Ezra Taylor has recently joined the Warriors ranks to add even more firepower to an already impressive arsenal at Richard Hill’s disposal.

However, Abbott believes he can hold his own among his Worcester team-mates even though he is a specialist seven rather than a jack-of-all-trades back-rower.

The former Worcester Sixth Form College student said: “We have got such fantastic competition, particularly in our back row. Matt Kvesic is mega-talented and Sam Betty has made his move here work so well.

“Sam is on form and, in my view, one of our best back rows at the moment.

“We also have Kai Horstmann and Adam Balding coming back from injury and Neil Best is the solid anchor of that back row at times. It only takes one slip-up, one bad game, and the other boys will step in.”

The 23-year-old 5ft 11ins academy product added: “For me, I’m lucky to be back playing and I’ve got to make sure I make the most of it and keep that spot for when everyone is back fit.

“I consider myself an out-and-out seven — I am not really tall enough to be an eight or six so, more than anything, I need to cement my position in the team.

“More competition drives the team to succeed. Whoever is playing in that back row, it’s going to be a good combination. Everyone can step up to the plate which is great for Warriors.”