Wootton: My last two years at Munster were a struggle

ALEX WOOTTON makes it clear from early on that he doesn’t want to spend the next few minutes talking about Munster and what went wrong for him in Limerick.

After a difficult couple of years, in terms of injuries and lack of game-time, Wootton has embarked on a new journey as he jumped at the chance to join Connacht on a season-long loan.

The 26-year-old winger has made a positive early impression on his new team as he looks to prove the doubters wrong.

Two years ago, Wootton was starting for Munster in a Champions Cup semi-final, but he quickly fell out of favour, which is why he was so keen for that fresh start out west.

“Yeah, the past two years have been a struggle, there has been no doubt, but I look back on it and I’ve learned a hell of a lot, to be honest,” Wootton (pictured) says . “I could look back and start whinging and whining about it, but I was quite happy with the people I had around me – family, friends. Even though it was a tough period, I am definitely a better person and player than I was.

“There were obviously injuries, non-selection, there were different bits and bobs going on, but I am happy that I am here now.”

Connacht’s attack coach Nigel Carolan, who has an excellent track record of working with young players, has certainly been impressed with Wootton’s attitude.

“I think every player just needs a bit of love at times and to know you are appreciated,” Carolan says.

“He feels valued, he feels he is an important member of our team and appreciated. “He has got a bit of a licence (to play). Since he came in, he has been a popular member of the group. He is chatty, he is open, but every player has demons. He feels valued, he has integrated seamlessly and understands how we want to play the game.

“He is enjoying being involved, he is getting plenty of ball both off strikes and counterattacks.

“We are trying to bring out the best in him and he feels that he is able to express himself as well.” For Wootton, it’s about getting game time. Last season, he played just two games for Munster, the season before he managed only seven.

“Point to prove? To myself, I think I have yeah, because you look at the past two years and I haven’t really played regularly,” he admits.

“It was hard not being able to back up those two years of hard work.

“There were days you are a bit upset or disappointed, it was making sure those days counted. Look, it’s sport, you prove people wrong the whole time.

“Connacht being in the four provinces is always going to be an underdog, but Munster played that card quite a lot, so I am used to being in the position to be proving points.

“I played with a few lads here with the Ireland U-20s and I really didn’t realise how much of an uplift it would give me and a fresh feel until I actually made the move.”

Coming from a sevens background, Wootton will certainly fit the mould for what Andy Friend looks for in a winger.

Asked if he feels Connacht’s expansive style of play will suit him better than Munster’s, Wootton simply adds: “Yeah, 100 per cent.”