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Horsman hopes injury jinx is over

Chros Horsman
Warriors prop Chris Horsman has played 14 times for Wales

Worcester Warriors prop Chris Horsman is hoping to put his injury jinx behind him by nailing down a first team place.

Horsman, who is on his way back after a neck injury, has only started five games for Warriors this season.

"Every time I get into a team and start playing well I seem to get injured," he told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

"I get into the Welsh team and at Worcester and get injured. It robs me of my chances. But you have to get back up, and get back on the horse."

Horsman says he enjoys the reputation of being the sort of man opposing props do not like playing against.

"People's perception of me is as a bit of a meat head and a Neanderthal," he said. "I like the fact that people don't like playing against me.

"I take it as a huge compliment. That shows what you want to be as a professional player.

"I take a huge amount pride in my sport and in my games."

Horsman, who has been acting as one of BBC Hereford and Worcester's commentary summarisers while out injured, says he is very different away from the rugby pitch.

With my cancer and having overcome it twice, people say it inspires them and I find that very humbling

Worcester Warriors Chris Horsman
"I know in the past I have let myself down, and the team, by getting yellow carded," he said. "But my record is not that bad.

"I'm not saying what I did was right, but it seems every time there is a fracas I am involved with it.

"When I get on the field I want to give everything for Worcester and for Wales. But I'm entirely different off the field.

"When I came to Worcester I came to a club where the supporters and management accepted me."

Horsman has been dubbed the Lance Armstrong of rugby after beating testicular then stomach cancer within a decade before embarking on an international career.

"With my cancer and having overcome it twice, people say it inspires them and I find that very humbling.

"If seeing me on the field does give somebody who is suffering right now a little hope then that is just great.

"I just want to train hard, take nothing for granted, give my all and look after my family."

Worcester Warriors play Leicester Tigers at Welford Road next Saturday (21 February, 1500 GMT). Full commentary on BBC Hereford and Worcester.

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see also
Four-week ban for Warriors prop
09 Oct 08 |  Worcester
Chris Horsman out for four months
18 Oct 07 |  Worcester
Horsman ruled out for the season
09 Jan 06 |  Internationals
Horsman proud to get Wales opportunity
31 Oct 05 |  Rugby Union


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