Thompson: Take a punt on Trailfinders

EXPERIENCED back rower Guy Thompson believes Ealing are worthy of a shot at the top-flight.

- NEALE HARVEY

Amid doubts over whether the Championship season will commence, Premiership clubs are considering expanding their league from season 2021/22, which may open the door for Ealing as the only club besides Saracens who can meet top-flight criteria.

With a ground share at a nearby football club understood to be in place, former Wasps and Leicester man Thompson is certain the professionalism of Ealing’s operation will ensure they can thrive in the top-flight rather than collapse in a heap like ill-fated London Welsh.

Thompson, 33, told The Rugby Paper: “When I came to Ealing I had to raise my standards a lot higher to catch up with other boys. The club is run as well, if not better than some of the Premiership clubs I’ve been at, or other clubs I know of.

“Facilities are second to none and the medical, S&C and everything is developing to make this a viable Premiership side. We’re financially secure and we’ve got a very good squad.

“They’ve taken their time, building things slowly, and while we know things don’t happen overnight and nobody knows what the future holds, I’d be in favour of expanding the Premiership and bringing Saracens and Ealing up into a new 14-team league.”