Giles focused on winning first cap
KEELAN Giles insists he’s faster than ever as he continues his Ospreys comeback after a year out with a knee injury.
The 20-year-old showed his predatory instincts were still intact as he scored two tries against Connacht last month. The former Wales U20 star is hoping the tries keep coming as the PRO14 returns after a two-week break when Ospreys travel to Leinster on Friday.
“The last 12 months have been very tough, especially being bed-bound for a while, on crutches, and not being able to walk,” Giles said.
“I tried my best to stay positive, but you do get the odd thought whether you are going to play again or whether you will be as good when you come back.
“My first contact session back was a bit sketchy, but once I made my first carry and my first tackle I just forgot about everything.
“I’ve been working hard on my numbers and my speed has gone up so I’m faster than I’ve ever been.”
Giles remains one of the most lethal finishers in Welsh rugby. He was thrust into Warren Gatland’s senior squad as a fresh faced 18-year-old for their tour to New Zealand in 2016.
He retained his place the following autumn – making the bench for the Test against Japan – but a first cap remains elusive.
Luke Morgan and George North may be ahead in the Ospreys pecking order, but Giles says international honours are at the forefront of his mind.
He said: “I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t thinking about getting back into the Wales squad.
“We’ve got two great wingers here at the Ospreys who are in the Wales squad in Luke and George but I want to get a run of games under my belt and push for a starting berth.”