Homer revels in Premiership life

Homer has also starred for England U20s this season

London Irish's Tom Homer says he is not allowing the pressure of Premiership rugby to faze him.

Less than a year ago, the 18-year-old was still at Milton Abbey school and studying for his A-levels.

But the academy player has made nine appearances this season for the Exiles' senior squad.

He told BBC Berkshire: "I just wanted to settle into the club and get used to the way we play, but before I knew it, I was playing in the Premiership."

Although Homer played schoolboy rugby at centre, he has played at full-back and wing for Irish this season, scoring twice on his Premiership debut against Saracens.

He said: "At the moment I'm a full-back. I haven't played centre for a while. I enjoy the open spaces and the ability to be able to run at people and kick.

"It is a big step up from school, but I've loved every minute of it. The club helps these younger players push forward - everyone's really supportive in all you do, which is good for the future of the club."

In addition to playing senior level rugby, Homer has added the pressure to himself by taking over the place-kicking duties for the Exiles.

"It's certainly extra pressure, but I try not to think about it until the kick actually comes. It is slightly nerve-wracking, but I try to blank out the crowd and focus on the kick.

"I try to focus on my game and take everything that comes my way."

We're asking a lot of Tommy Homer - kicking goals in front of 20,000 - but these things don't faze the youngsters any more.

Mike Catt

Backs coach Mike Catt added that he has been impressed with what he has seen from Homer this season.

"None of our academy boys that have been part of the squad this year have let us down. We're asking a lot of Tommy - kicking goals in front of 20,000 - but these things don't faze the youngsters any more.

"He's very astute and confident in what he's doing and he does the basics very, very well. Toby Booth has them all grounded and doing the right things."

And for Homer, half the age of Catt, it is quite an experience to play with the veteran centre.

"He's been one of my heroes growing up, being a centre like me, so it's amazing to be playing alongside him and being coached by him."