20 Questions: James Simpson-Daniel – Gloucester wing
It was a nasty one (fracture /dislocation of the ankle in November) but the crutches have gone, I’m walking again and it’s where the medics want it.
Will you play again this season?
Doubtful. I’ve put a line through it really, but if I do get back it will be a bonus.
Consider packing up?
I didn’t until the severity of the injury became clear. But the surgeon is confident I will come back and mentally I’m not ready to step down.
Frustrating watching the lads struggle?
You certainly share the pain. Many things have gone wrong: lack of doggedness early season, scrums have been an issue, missed kicks at goal. Poor discipline too – people want passion and pride, but you don’t have to be thick with it.
Amazing to think you debuted in 2000?
I know, I’m only 32 but it’s my 14th season and I’m the old man. I signed from school at 17 and went straight into the first team squad.
Best moment with Glaws?
My debut off the bench at Northampton was special, but my home debut against Rotherham a week later topped it. I got my head taken off by Mike Umaga with my first touch, but scored a try from halfway with the second. Get goosebumps thinking about it.
Best memories with England?
My debut against New Zealand was special but, sadly, there were more negatives. I picked up injuries at the wrong time and I’d have loved to have played more.
Still involved with the horse?
Monbeg Dude, yes. Me, Tinds, Nick Robinson and Michael Scudamore got involved and we’ve been really lucky. The excitement of watching him is amazing.
Hectic racing period coming up?
He’ll run at Doncaster this week and then it’s on to the Grand National at Aintree. He’s about third favourite at the moment and it’ll be one of the biggest days of my life. Hopefully he won’t get brought down at the first!
Fancy a career in horses?
At one point I did, but I’ve never had enough time. I do love the sport, though, so I’ll probably look to stay on the ownership side.
Plans for life after rugby?
I’ve got my Level 2 coaching and I enjoyed doing a coaching for schools course. That interests me and I’m also involved with a company called Kings Biltong.
A Biltong salesman!?
Yes. Me and my brothers, Charlie and Mark, launched it last year and we’re giving it a push at the moment.
Rugby idols growing up?
Easy… Thomas Castaignede and Carlos Spencer. I played fly-half at school and I was lucky enough to play against Thomas, then with Carlos at Gloucester.
How do you chill-out?
I used to enjoy snooker but between rehab and my business, time doesn’t allow. Relaxation comes with my family and the horse.
Best places visited?
I’ve been to amazing places with rugby like Argentina, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand. Holiday-wise, I love Barbados and we’re going again this summer.
Three famous people you’d have to dinner?
Muhammad Ali, the legend; Lee Evans for the comedy; and actor Mark Wahlberg, who tells a very good story.
Most annoying player?
Jonny May. He irritates by walking around making animal noises, deliberately trying to get under people’s skin. God help England!
Best and worst dressed?
Henry Trinder’s smart, worst is Rob Cook. He wears big wide jeans because they’re all he can get his fat bum into. Mind you, I’m the same!
Rituals and superstitions?
I always have beans on toast for breakfast on game days. I’ve also got a lucky sock that I’ve had since school that I wear on my right foot. I panicked once because I thought I’d lost it. I’d probably have been better off burning it!
Remaining rugby goals?
England’s over, but I’d like to lift more silverware with Gloucester. The Premiership is the Holy Grail and losing finals in 2003 and 2007 scarred me, so I’d love that.
