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It has been a tough 18 months for Freddie Steward, who has gone from first choice England fullback to third in line behind George Furbank and Marcus Smith.
Now though he is back to his best and enjoying life in a Leicester Tigers team that has been given greater licence under Michael Cheika.
The Tigers are second in the Gallagher Premiership behind Bath and playing a style that has brought the best out of Steward and wings Adam Radwan and Ollie Hassell-Collins.
GREATER FREEDOM
“Michael Chieka has been brilliant and is such a good motivator. He’s freed us up a bit and made me find that enjoyment again,” Steward told the Stick To Rugby podcast.
“Peter Hewat our attack coach who has been brought in this season has been absolutely brilliant for us because he’s given us this plan where we’re running the ball more and attacking space.”
Steward showed off his rebooted running threat in Leicester’s 36-19 win against Bristol Bears, using footwork, pace, and a dummy pass to round the Bears’ defence to score a memorable try.
It is a reward for the work he put in after being replaced in the England 15 shirt by George Furbank midway through the 2024 Six Nations.
He returned for the match against South Africa in November 2024, and started their opening Six Nations match, but after the 27-22 loss to Ireland, Marcus Smith and Elliot Daly were Steve Borthwick’s picks.
OFF ON TOUR
With his confidence high Steward will be hopeful of taking his new style on England’s three-test July tour to Argentina and USA.
“I’ve always wanted to be that player that wants to know,” he added. “I spoke to Steve, and he gave me a clear idea which is what I needed.
“It is trying to be more well-rounded. I was beaten one-on-one at the back, and I’ve gone away and worked on that.”
