We’ll prove we’re no softies at Wasps says Gaskell

JAMES Gaskell knows Wasps must sharpen their defence or forget about silverware this season.

Gaskell’s side threw away a 21-0 lead to capitulate 33-28 at Harlequins last week, again exposing the underbelly of a Wasps side that has shipped 38 tries in 13 Premiership games.

Angry lock Gaskell said: “We had some very honest conversations after Harlequins, only people who can resolve our defensive issues are the players.

“Last week was the most gutted we’ve felt since losing May’s Premiership final, but one thing it did underline was how much everyone at the club cares.

“We’ve let ourselves down in Europe and we’ve got three weeks to sort things out before we return to the Premiership. We must rebuild our confidence before we go back to Harlequins in the league.”

Gaskell partners Joe Launchbury in the engine room, while Juan de Jongh returns from a hamstring strain to join Kyle Eastmond in midfield. The only other change sees Jack Willis at No.6 in place of suspended James Haskell.

Gaskell promises a reaction, adding: “We’re not soft, we want to go out and hit people in defence and we’re aiming to give Ulster a hard time.”

Last week’s signing of All Blacks star Lima Sopoaga gave Wasps a timely boost. Gaskell said: “He’s a world-class player and it shows the club’s intent. For an English club we probably embody the attacking, southern-hemisphere style more than most and he’ll fit in well.”

Darren Cave deputises for Craig Gilroy (fractured cheekbone) as Ulster seek the win that could see them clinch the group. Australia fly-half Christian Lealiifano plays his final game for the club before returning to the Brumbies.