Sharples has represented England at Under-20 level

Gloucester's Charlie Sharples says he is relishing the chance to play at full-back for the Cherry and Whites.

The 21-year-old is normally a winger but has been wearing the number 15 shirt for the last two matches after Olly Morgan picked up an injury.

"In attack you have the freedom to pop up where you want which is quite exciting," he told BBC Gloucestershire.

"And I'd like to think I've put a bit of pressure on selection for the back three," Sharples added.

We know what we need to improve and it's just a few basic things - it's early days but there's definitely a lot more to come from us Charlie Sharples

"You always want to push the guys in front of you and it's good to have competition for places."

Gloucester have had a slow start to their Premiership campaign, losing two out of their first three fixtures.

They began their campaign with a 22-17 away defeat by new boys Exeter on the opening day and also lost last weekend 23-16 at London Irish.

And despite a narrow 22-21 home win against bottom side Leeds in between, Sharples admitted the side must improve.

"We haven't a great start to the season and speaking to a lot of the players they would agree," he said.

"There are a lot of things to work on and just because we are where we are in the league doesn't mean we're going to stay there.

"We know what we need to improve and it's just a few basic things. It's early days but there's definitely a lot more to come from us."

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