New signing Guy Mercer says he’s looking forward to playing regularly at the Liberty Stadium, less than two weeks after running out at the home of the Ospreys in Bath colours.
- Mercer arrived at Llandarcy Academy of Sport today after completing a season long loan at Bath
- Club captain at the Rec last season, one club man Mercer played at the Liberty Stadium earlier this month in Bath's pre-season win
- Says he's looking forward to the "huge challenge" of securing a matchday slot at the Ospreys
The 27-year old openside flanker today completed a season long loan move from the Aviva Premiership side to the Ospreys having featured in all three of Bath’s pre-season games and starting in two, including their 28-14 win in Swansea.
With the transfer now confirmed, the Bath centurion acknowledged the double quick speed of his switch ahead of the new season which gets underway this weekend.
“It’s a really exciting opportunity” said Mercer.
“I’m really looking forward to it. It came a little bit out of the blue but that’s rugby, professional sport, you have to just roll with it and take these opportunities when they come your way.
“I’ve been at Bath all my career, grew up supporting them, but this is another challenge for me. I’m excited about what’s in store for me this season with the Ospreys and grateful for the opportunity.”
Having met his new team-mates at the region’s Llandarcy training base this morning Mercer, club captain at Bath last season, said that being part of their starting XV against the Ospreys earlier this month had given him a valuable understanding of the region ahead of the loan.
“It’s a little bit strange having played at the Liberty Stadium less than two weeks ago” Mercer admitted.
“That gave me a good insight into the squad and what the Ospreys are about, and I’m looking forward to playing regularly at the Liberty this season as part of the home team. It’s a great venue, one of the best stadiums around. It’ll certainly be different for me to be able to call it home.
“I’ve had half an eye on the changes to what is now the PRO14, following what’s been going on over the summer with the South African clubs and that’s pretty cool. It’s a point of difference that the championship has and it’s going to be a good experience for everybody.
“The Champions Cup pool is pretty strong as well but there’s a couple of clubs I’m familiar with. It’ll be an exciting draw and I’m really excited about the prospect.
“There’s a very strong back row contingent at the Ospreys with some quality Wales internationals and Lions, so there’s going to be a huge challenge just to get a game but I’m looking forward to it.”
