Strokosch has been handed a new two-year deal by Gloucester

Strokosch, who joined Gloucester from Edinburgh in the summer, has signed a new two-year contract with the club.

"I knew when I came down here it was going to be a hard task to break into the team," the 24-year-old told BBC Radio Gloucestershire.

"But the coaches and the players seem to make it easy for you because there is so much quality around you."

Strokosch added: "It is easy to go out and play your own game and when you see everyone else around you it makes you raise your game as well to try and keep up with them. It is a good environment to be in."

I am not a flashy player but I think I do things that allow the flashier players, like Ryan Lamb, to make the breaks and do their stuff Alasdair Strokosch

The Scottish back row star is one of three former Edinburgh players on the Kingsholm books, as well as ace Scotland goal kicker Chris Paterson.

And he believes having so many familiar faces around has helped him settle into his new surroundings.

"I already knew Rory Lawson, Alasdair Dickinson and Chris and that does make it easier when your home life off the pitch is settled and means all you have to concern yourself with is rugby," added Strokosch.