ROB WILDMAN’S GAINLINE

Donald confronted about recent slump

BATH’S World Cup winner Stephen Donald has had showdown talks with his club about his poor performances. The New Zealander, who kicked the crucial penalty in last October’s final against France, was dropped for the trip to Sale on Friday. He could play tonight in a reserve-team game and chief executive Nick Blofeld has dismissed talk of him returning home after only one season. ‘Stephen’s not going back, there is no truth in that,’ Blofeld said. ‘There has been a frank conversation with him after some poor performances, but he has come back strong.’

Young admits cash fear

WASPS coach David Young has spoken about the anxiety felt by his players amid the threat of administration. Young, whose side lost 33-17 at Harlequins on Saturday, said: ‘It is worrying for everybody from management to players and if you have family and kids to look after it is even more worrying.’

Gloucester coach understands fans’ anger

BRYAN REDPATH saw his Gloucester team booed off by their own fans following the defeat by bottom-placed Newcastle on Saturday — and then had to fend off speculation about a possible move to Sale. ‘I’ve got a contract here and I’m fighting to do everything I can to make sure we win games,’ the head coach said. ‘It’s hard for the players but it’s also hard for a group of passionate fans to see us lose in the manner we’ve lost this year.’