Bedford centre aiming for Wasps revenge

MICHAEL Le Bourgeois has enjoyed regular game time at Bedford after being cut by Wasps and is looking forward to locking horns with his former club next season.

Centre Le Bourgeois, 32, played 71 times for Wasps in a four-year spell and rejoined the Blues last summer, where he spent five seasons prior to his move to the Premiership.

He said: “It was pretty tough to leave Bedford but once you get your shot in the Premiership it would be silly not to take it. My time at Wasps was nice but it was a shame the way things ended.

“It was a great four years and I thought it was going real well but at the end of it Mike (Rayer, Bedford DoR) offered me a good opportunity here, and I had to start thinking about the next stage. Since coming back I’ve got that competitive edge back and I’m enjoying playing rugby. It’s been a positive year.”

Le Bourgeois’ fondest memories of his time at Wasps were reaching the Premiership final in 2020 and being able to play in the Champions Cup.

The Jerseyman is pleased Wasps are back on their feet with their place in the Championship secured after enduring administration.

He said: “It’s that extra excitement and motivation to play against them so it’s something I’m looking forward to.

“I’m pleased for the boys and the staff as well as it’s been really tough for them. It’s good to see they’ve come out the other side and they’ve got plans to have them back in the Championship. Hopefully they can come back stronger and do well.”

Le Bourgeois played 23 times this season scoring two tries and is delighted to have played his part in securing fourth place.

He added: “It’s a different kettle of fish to the Premiership, it’s not as physical and not as quick. I lost that enjoyment a bit coming to the end of my last few months at Wasps for various reasons. I’ve got back to enjoying my rugby because at the end of the day it’s the only reason I do it.”