We all know the importance of getting a result this weekend. On the one hand it will keep us in the running to get a place in the end of season Wild Card play-offs, and at the same time move us further away from the bottom of the table.
It is also a big game for London Irish, who need the points in their battle to avoid falling to the bottom of the table. Despite their poor run of form in recent weeks, the Exiles have been very unlucky on a number of occasions where decisions have gone against them in close games; these decisions have cost them dearly. They have a good defence, they look after the ball very well, taking it through many phases of play, and they have some fine players.
With respect to the team we have selected, returning to the starting XV this week are Ugo Monye, Dafydd James and Will Greenwood, who is making his first start in the side since 18th December.
On the injury front, both Andy Dunne and Tani Fuga will now miss the rest of the season due to injury, along with Maurice Fitz Gerald and Mark Lambert. Tani is to have an operation on a torn cartilage, while the fracture in Andy's foot has still not healed and the consultant has reported that he needs at least a further three weeks rest.
As ever at this time of the season there has been an enormous amount of press speculation with regards to players who may or may not be coming to NEC Harlequins next season. As much as you want me to say otherwise, I am going to be boring and very predictable by saying that we are not going to comment on media speculation. Any announcements with regards to new signings will not be made before the end of the season - in the meantime, the press will continue to play fantasy rugby and link us with every player around the globe.
The team will be meeting up in our hotel this evening to start preparations for tomorrow's game. Everyone is only too well aware of the importance of the next few weeks to the club and everyone involved with NEC Harlequins; supporters, sponsors and staff alike. The opportunity of qualifying for next season's Heineken Cup remains and it is up to us to take that opportunity.
Look forward to seeing you all at a very noisy Stoop tomorrow afternoon.
