De Jongh will get down and dirty

MIDFIELD linchpin Juan de Jongh knows Wasps’ must shore up their defence if they are to claim the Premiership title.

Wasps head into the semi-finals with a defensive record far inferior to main rivals Exeter and Saracens – an issue De Jongh is keen to address.

De Jongh said: “When it comes to winning championships, defence makes the difference and we’ve not been happy with that over the last few weeks.

“Compared to the others we’ve conceded too many tries throughout the season.

“That’s where I come in because while we’ve got lots of great playmakers and can score plenty of tries, you need guys doing the dirty work as well. If that’s going to be my role in the team this month, it’s a challenge I’ll rise to.”

While De Jongh’s occupation of the No.13 shirt has seen England midfielder Elliot Daly shunted to the wing, the South African insists: “It’s not about winning a war or anything like that, it’s a squad effort and it doesn’t matter who’s in the jersey.

“I’m just working hard and whether I get the 12 or 13 shirt, or it’s 22 or 23, it’s important that I take any opportunities I’m given.”

De Jongh won the last of his 16 caps for the Springboks in 2016 but is in line for a comeback against England next month after Wasps’ boss Dai Young recommended his inclusion to South Africa head coach Rassie Erasmus.

However, De Jongh added: “When the man upstairs (Erasmus) opens doors for you like that it’s a great honour to be considered, but I’m all about the black and yellow of Wasps over the next few weeks and trying to win this title.

“Whatever happens at the end of the season we’ll take it from there, but this month is the most important for Wasps. It’s all about focus and tunnel vision and I’m working hard to make sure I’m in good shape.”