David Denton eyes Scotland comeback through Worcester Warriors

Back-row David Denton is hoping to use his new stint with Aviva Premiership club Worcester Warriors as a platform for making a comeback into the Scotland squad.

The 27-year-old made his debut for Scotland in August 2011 and overall has 35 appearances for the Dark Blues with his last appearance coming during the tour of Japan in June last year.

Denton, who was part of the 2015 World Cup squad made his professional rugby debut with Edinburgh in 2010 and after featuring in 79 games for the Pro 12 club, he decided to switch to Bath.

However, things did not quite pan out for Denton with the Recreation Ground outfit as he injured his hamstring early in the 2016/17 season but managed to return early in 2017.

“It was very frustrating for me last season,” said Denton.

“The injury right at the start of the season left me annoyed when I should have been kicking on at Bath and although I had a year left on my contract there I felt that the time was right to seek a fresh start."

Nevertheless, Denton is hoping to make the most of his chances with Worcester Warriors.

“In sport at times you have to wipe the slate clean and start with a fresh outlook and when Worcester showed interest I was keen because everything I had ever seen or heard about their set-up was positive.

“I had a great break away from the game which is what I needed, spending time with my girlfriend and family in Zimbabwe, and I feel like I have come back into pre-season with Worcester with a real spring in my step.

“I am really enjoying pre-season, you don’t often hear players say that, and everyone has made me feel very welcome and I just can’t wait for the season to come around.”

Denton will be lined up for the first pre-season for Worcester Warriors against Hartpury on 12th August and the back-row is hoping to produce convincing performances with the Sixways outfit to grab the attention of the new Scotland coach Gregor Townsend.

“First and foremost I just want to get back to enjoying my rugby, playing regularly for Worcester and making an impact for them, but of course Scotland is on my mind because I love playing for my country,” added Denton.

“Running out at BT Murrayfield for a big international is a special feeling and it was strange watching the guys play in the Six Nations and on the summer tour without me.

“My lack of rugby towards the end of last season cost me in terms of the summer tour, but Gregor and Matt have been great at keeping in touch and letting me know I am still in their thoughts. It is now up to me to prove that I deserve to get back to that level.”