Freddie Steward has said that losing his England place made him a better rugby player and person, as he prepares for a return to Murrayfield in the Six Nations.
The full-back was dropped for George Furbank for the 2024 Six Nations match against Scotland, with head coach Steve Borthwick seeking an extra attacking dimension. Steward travelled to Edinburgh as a reserve and later saw the demotion featured in the Netflix documentary 'Six Nations: Full Contact', including an emotional phone call to his girlfriend.
Furbank, Marcus Smith and Elliot Daly all had opportunities in the position, but Steward worked on his attacking game and one-on-one defence. He was reinstated for the 2025 summer tour and has started every major Test since.
"It was very public. That was the first time in my career I'd experienced a negative on that level, so it was really tough," said the 25-year-old. "I probably victimised myself and blamed everything but myself. But when something gets taken away from you, you get that extra bit of hunger and drive."
Steward added that he would not be in his current position without that episode. "I'm definitely a better rugby player and a better person because of that. I have matured because I had to learn how to deal with a scenario like that."
England travel to Edinburgh on a 12-Test winning run and are seeking a first victory at Murrayfield since 2020. Steward, who played there in 2022, said: "I love playing there. Great atmosphere. Of course, at times it can be hostile, but as players, we have full confidence going there."
