Scarlets outside half Aled Thomas who has returned to his home region from Gloucester Rugby says he is looking really looking forward to the new challenges ahead.
Thomas, 30 from Bancyfelin, first represented the region back in 2004 having developed through the Academy. Following spells with Newport Gwent Dragons and London Welsh Thomas returned to West Wales for the 2011-12 season making 64 appearances before leaving at the end of 2013-14 to join Gloucester.
Speaking earlier this week about his return home Thomas said: “I’m really looking forward and really excited to get back into it. It was a frustrating year last year and I’m now looking forward to getting back into some rugby.
“I’ll be working hard to try and achieve and try and play as much as possible. I’m really pleased to be back. I had mixed emotions leaving last season and I’m really happy to get the opportunity to come back.
“I’m going to try and make the most of it, play as much as possible, and hopefully make a big contribution to a successful season.”
Thomas is one of seven new signings who’ve arrived at the region for the new season; PRO12 champion winger DTH van der Merwe is currently on international duty with Canada ahead of Rugby World Cup.
Thomas went on to say: “There a lot of familiar faces here and some new boys too. They’ve made some real quality signings and I’m sure they’ll make a big difference. There’s a good core squad here for the start of the season which will hopefully put us in a good position before the internationals return and will see us pushing for the top four.”
Commenting on the competition for places within the squad Thomas went on to say; “There’s always pressure whatever position you’re in. There’s pressure in every game and every training session. I try not to think of people who’ve played in my position previously, it’s important to think in the present and perform on the weekend.
“Steve (Shingler) is a quality player, there are a number of good outside halves here. Steve took his opportunity last year and played well, there’s plenty of competition, there always is. I’ll be working as hard as possible to push for my place and push for the jersey.”
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