HOOKER Tom Lindsay was one of the new arrivals at Kingsholm this summer, moving from Wasps after six seasons in the black and gold. However, he told the club website that he's already feeling very much at home in Gloucester.

The Swindon born player had spent his entire club career at Wasps but, after more than 100 first team appearances, moved West ahead of the 2015-16 season and has quickly found his feet.

"It's been brilliant. The boys have made me very welcome, we've already done some team building stuff which was great. I'm looking forward to the rest of preseason and then the season itself.

"I was settled at Wasps, but I felt that I needed a new challenge if I was really going to do myself justice in the Premiership. Gloucester seemed like a fantastic place to try and do that, so here I am.

"I did get opportunities to play there, where there was real competition for the shirt. I picked up a knock at one point last season which didn't help. It's one of those things that happens in sport, but I just felt that I needed a fresh environment and I'm very happy already here.”

The former England Saxon is more than aware, however, that places in the starting line-up aren't guaranteed but insists that the challenge is a good one.

"I'm looking forward to the competition for places, I always relish that to be honest. Dukey (Darren Dawidiuk) and myself are already pushing each other hard in training, but we're also working together and that's important.

"But when it comes to game time and contact training, we won't be holding back. Hibbs is away, and he'll bring in even more quality when he's back. But, when the opportunity arises, I'll try to take it with both hands. I wasn't signed to be content to sit on the bench. I wouldn't be doing myself justice if I did that.

"We've recruited well up front, look to have some good strength in depth and I worked with Trevor Woodman at Wasps which helps, I know what drills he uses and what his ethos is.

"It was part of the attraction of coming to Gloucester. I was massively impressed with David and Laurie when I spoke to them, and the fact that Trevor was here was a bonus.”

It's a long preseason due to Rugby World Cup 2015 but, when the competitive action starts, Lindsay is under no illusions about how tough things will be.

"It's going to be a very different season. Each Premiership side is going to have to show their strength in depth because of the amount of games to be played. Players will pick up knocks and the internationals will be away again once the Six Nations come around.

"It's going to be hard, there are no breaks and the competition will be intense as it's Premiership or European action every week. But everyone is looking forward to it and already trying to stake a claim for the jersey.

"I think last year was a transitional year for the club, but they still managed to get a trophy out of it which was a great achievement. But, with regard to our Premiership standing, we want to do better and I think we've got the ability in the squad and in our coaching team to achieve that.”

For now though, he's just looking forward to getting started.

"I've played at Kingsholm a few times, often over the Christmas period, and they've always been great games and great occasions.

"Playing in front of the Shed is always a special experience – I'm looking forward to running over for a lineout and not getting shouted at – well hopefully not! But, seriously, it's a great crowd and I can't wait for my first game at Kingsholm.”