Cottrell to make up for lost time
Aggressive back-rower Angus Cottrell will use the frustration of missing the tail end of Western Force's 2014 season and possible Australian selection as the spur to bounce back for the club's 10th Super Rugby season.
Cottrell injured his left ankle and broke his left leg in the dying minutes of the 30-7 loss to the Crusaders in May. He missed the Force's final three games.
But he is confident he can regain the form that had him on the Wallabies' radar for the Test series against France.
The blindside flanker has already equalled a personal-best mark in the first week of fitness training.
"I obviously had to take a step back after the injury and you realise you can't take things for granted," Cottrell said.
"This is the first serious injury I've had that has kept me out for six months but it's only going to drive me and motivate me more to build on last season.
"Physically, there were obviously hurdles to get over in the rehab. I've done a fair bit of running, now it's getting my rugby skills back in order.
"Mentally, I've got a lot of confidence. The ankle is not giving me too much grief and I'm ready to rip in and start playing rugby again."
Cottrell faces stiff competition for the back row next year with new signing Steve Mafi joining Wallabies Matt Hodgson and Ben McCalman, Chris Alcock who has recovered from a shoulder injury and South African Brynard Stander.
"Competition is very high. Steve Mafi is a big unit and with the rest of the guys pushing for selection it is going to be tough but that's good," Cottrell said.
"My main priority is getting back in the XV and playing some good rugby and as a team we want to build on last season.
"We've built a great culture. It's a great group and everyone wants to play for their mate.
"Confidence is high and Foles (coach Michael Foley) is pretty happy with the way things are tracking.
"He wants me to focus on what I did last year and has given me a few pointers for next year. He instils a lot of confidence in each of his players."
Cottrell first joined the Force in 2012 on an extended playing squad contract and has another two seasons with the club.
He came from Brisbane club Wests and had been chased by the Queensland Reds before re-signing earlier this year.
He is the son of Nev Cottrell Jr, who played for Queensland, and grandson of the late Test captain Nev "Notchy" Cottrell.
"… I'm ready to rip in and start playing rugby again."" *Angus Cottrell *
