England scrum-half Harry Randall has returned from injury ahead of schedule and hopes to catch Steve Borthwick's eye ahead of the Six Nations. The 28-year-old made his 150th appearance for Bristol Bears in the win against Newcastle last Saturday, as Pat Lam's side extended their winning run to five matches.
Bristol sit fourth in the Premiership table and are targeting a playoff push. Randall, who has 14 England caps, says a change in mindset has been key. 'We feel like we are a really hard team to beat now. Defensively we've made improvements from last year,' he said.
Randall played for England on the summer tour to the Americas and remains in Borthwick's thoughts. The head coach sent a message after his return from hamstring surgery. 'I just got a message off him again when I got back from injury last week, saying: Good to see you back. I really appreciate those messages,' Randall said.
Bristol face Sale at Ashton Gate on Friday, where the Sharks have won on their last three visits, including a 38-0 victory just over a year ago. But Randall believes the Bears are a different proposition now. 'We've got players that can create something out of nothing. Gengey and Rees-Zammit, you've got to get them on the ball as much as you can,' he said.
Randall signed a new long-term contract last week and says life is consumed by his 21-month-old twin girls. His pre-match routine includes a Nando's the night before a game. 'The nutritionist doesn't mind us having the chips and garlic bread,' he added.
