GLOUCESTER RUGBY

LAST SEASON: 7th. COACH: Johan Ackermann KEY INS: Matt Banahan (Bath), Danny Cipriani (Wasps), Todd Gleave (London Irish), Gerbrandt Grobler (Munster), Ruan Dreyer, Jaco Kriel, Franco Marais, Franco Mostert (all Lions, SA).

KEY OUTS: John Afoa (Bristol), Billy Burns (Ulster), Richard Hibbard (Dragons), Motu Matu’u (London Irish), Ross Moriarty (Dragons), Jeremy Thrush (Western Force). STAR MAN: Danny Cipriani. If he stays out of trouble he could well be the signing of the season. BOSS’S BOLTER — Johan

Ackermann: ‘Franco Marais. The South African hooker is going to bring a nice physical edge to the pack and our team.’ FAN VERDICT — Adrian

Lane: ‘I believe a top-four finish is achievable but I would settle for top six. In Ackermann we now have the leader and visionary so long lacked, plus a truly star-studded squad.’ SPORTSMAIL’S VERDICT: 4th. With Cipriani and Matt Banahan there are no excuses now for the Cherry and Whites not to blossom.