Sheedy could still hold key to Bristol survival
CALLUM Sheedy is unlikely to play a single Premiership minute for Bristol this season but the young fly-half could still play a major role in keeping them in the Premiership.
The Welsh playmaker was the stand-out performer in the promotion play-off final kicking 35 points over two legs against Doncaster.
But hamstring problems have kept him out of contention this term and he was loaned out to Jersey where he has made a big impact already as the Islanders have won their last nine matches in all competition.
Last week they handed promotion favourites London Irish their first defeat of the season to claw their way back to within two points of Doncaster in fourth and three adrift of third-placed Ealing.
Should Sheedy and Jersey maintain their impressive form and upset the odds to win the Championship it will keep Bristol in the Premiership next season as neither they, nor Ealing, meet the promotion criteria.
Sheedy recently signed a new deal to remain at Bristol next season and head coach Mark Tainton is expecting a bright future for the 21-year-old.
He said: “Callum is a fiercely ambitious young man with a promising career ahead of him.
“At 21 years old, there’s plenty for him still to learn, but he is developing all the time at Bristol Rugby
“We’re pleased he has chosen to commit to the club and continue to compete for a first-team place.
“It’s been a tough season for Callum with injuries, especially after the highs of his performances in the play-offs in 2016, but he has shown excellent resilience throughout.”
Bristol have Ireland international Ian Madigan joining them next season, a player Sheedy is excited to be working with.
He said: “I’m looking forward to continue growing my game by working and learning from a world-class fly half like Ian [Madigan].
“With Pat [Lam]’s appointment and the values he will bring to the environment, it’s an exciting time for all the players in the squad.
“Personally, I am determined to earn a starting berth in the first team and I will continue to work hard to achieve that.”