Priestland eager to grab Bath chance in Ford’s absence
RHYS Priestland has vowed to put aside doubts over his Bath future and knuckle down to the job of winning trophies for the West Country club.
Priestland’s ill-starred time at the Rec hit a low point last week when he was excluded from the Wales squad for next month’s autumn Tests.
After playing second fiddle to George Ford, the 29-year-old fly-half is being linked with a return to his homeland next summer, having left Scarlets in 2015.
However, Priestland refuses to rule out extending his Bath contract, telling The Rugby Paper: “Strange as it may sound, I really love it here.”
Priestland, who kicked 17 points in the win over Bristol on Thursday, added: “I know I didn’t play much last year but it’s probably the most I’ve enjoyed a club environment. The squad’s fantastic and the training facilities at Farleigh are unbelievable.
“I really enjoy the training and they strive to make you better every day, so I’ve liked living here and the people have been really friendly.
“People ask me what I want to do next summer but I just want to get some games and a run of form.
“I’ve no idea what’s going to happen to me after this year, all I want is to do is stay fit and do my best when I get an opportunity.”
Priestland is marooned on 48 Welsh caps, but said: “It’s not the end of the world if I get stranded because 48 is a hell of a lot better than nothing.
“If I play well I might get another opportunity, so that’s my target.”
With Ford away with England during November and early December, Priestland has a guilt-edged chance to shine at No.10.
He said: “It’s a decent opportunity I want to grab and I think we have a team that can stay in the Premiership top four.
“Everyone was disappointed with the way last year went but we’ve had a good winning run and there’s a good feeling in the squad.
“The Premiership’s our bread and butter, but we’re taking Europe seriously too and we’re targeting silverware on both fronts.”