Slade out to inspire the next generation

HENRY Slade says he will use the heartbreak of missing out on selection for this year’s Rugby World Cup as the driver to help inspire a new golden generation at the Exeter Chiefs. 

- MARK STEVENS

The talented playmaker was a surprise omission from Steve Borthwick’s squad for the tournament being played in France. Slade had been a virtual ever-present in the England set-up leading up the tournament, but was then axed right at the death, a decision he admits left him both “gutted” and “frustrated”.

“Having worked so hard to put us in that position and then not be picked for the final squad, I can’t understate how gutted and frustrated I was,” said Slade. “It’s without doubt one of the most disappointing feelings I’ve had in my life.

“It’s tough watching from afar, but I’m fully behind the boys and hopefully they can go as far as they can in the tournament.”

But whilst England look to kick on into the latter stages across the English Channel, Slade is himself focusing his sights on domestic matters and helping a new and youthful Chiefs side to hit the new campaign at full tilt.