Davies after a fresh start under Boyd
EXPERIENCED No.9 Charlie Davies is looking to Northampton’s ‘brotherhood’ to reboot his stalled career after conceding he lost his way at the Dragons.
Davies, who holds the rare distinction of having played in all three top European leagues during spells with Stade Francais, Wasps and Dragons, will relish the opportunity to challenge for a starting spot after a nightmare end to his threeyear stint in Wales.
Davies, 28, told TRP: “When I moved to Wales from Wasps in 2015 I had big goals and ambitions, but it didn’t work out and I lost my way.
“For the first two years it was a good battle between myself and Sarel Pretorius for the No.9 jersey and we went toe-to-toe, but after Bernard Jackman took over last year there was a lot of change and I never really knew where I stood with him on selection.
“I counted myself as an experienced, senior player but wasn’t used to that potential. I got back in the team towards the end of last season and showed myself in a pretty good light, but it just didn’t click for me and it became obvious it was time to move on.
“Bernard has his own style of coaching and has a direction he wants to take that club, and I wish him all the best, but personally I lost my enjoyment with rugby a bit and hopefully I can get that back and challenge myself in a new environment.”
With new Northampton boss Chris Boyd on hand recently to oversee the first week of pre-season training, Davies explained: “The boys love his approach and there’ll be a real togetherness in the squad towards building unity and a positive mindset.
“Chris wants to create a ‘brotherhood’ and he believes what’s in the top of your head, that positivity and a willingness to work, will get the best results.”
Cobus Reinach owned Saints’ No.9 starting jersey at the end of last season. However, Davies is relishing the battle with Tom Kessell and academy starlet Alex Mitchell to pressure the experienced South African and partner Wales fly-half Dan Biggar.
Davies said: “I’ve played against Cobus and that guy can really run, while Tom’s a good quality player and Alex has been starring in the A-League, so it’s a challenge I’m excited about.
“Saints have made some great signings and Dan Biggar’s going to bring that extra edge and knowledge. He’s been one of the best 10s in the world for a long time and he’ll help raise the standards.
“With two good wingers coming in from Australia as well in Taqele Naiyaravoro and Andrew Kellaway, there’s so much potential within our backline to ensure Saints have a much better season than last.”