20 Questions: Elliott Stooke – Gloucester lock
Slow start but picking up the pace.
Was it to be expected after so much change over the summer?
Yes. It took us a while to gel between the new players and coaches. But we’ve been clicking well for a while now and it shows in our performances.
Can you still make the top 6 in the Premiership?
Definitely. We’ve got the capability to do it and even make the semi-finals. We’ve got to keep our head on and work hard to make sure we get the results we want.
The Challenge Cup must have helped to build confidence?
It was great to go unbeaten in Europe. It was a huge boost to build momentum for when the Premiership resumes. All the English clubs focus on the league and we’re no different.
Is lifting a Cup this season the main target?
One hundred per cent! We want to win silverware. We’re only two games away from the Challenge Cup final and one from the LV=Cup. Should we beat Connacht at home in the Europe we’ll play the semi-final at Kingsholm too so it’s a huge incentive for us.
Frustrating season for you personally?
Yes a bit, but I was never expecting to have a season like I had last year where I pretty much played every game. I’ve had to work harder this season and I’ve improved a lot.
Did it bring you down to earth?
You could say that. From winning the Junior World Cup in 2013 to playing week-in week-out I was on top of the world. I was never expecting so much success so quickly. But there is lot more competition this year so I’ve got to step it up.
What do you need to do to impress David Humphreys?
He wants to see me do more off the ball. My work rate is key to getting a shot.
It is about to get even harder with Jeremy Thrush on his way?
The club wants to go places and his signing proves it. Hopefully I’ll be able to be a part of that.
Came through the Hartpury system?
It’s the best in the country. The facilities are great and so is the level of rugby they play at. It changed me as person to be in that environment not just as a player. I’d recommend it to any young aspiring rugby player.
Living with Henry Purdy and Callum Braley?
Yes and it’s good fun. Henry has a timing issue, however, and I have to admit I’m not the tidiest. Callum says he’s off to bed but he’s actually ringing his missus which is annoying.
Who’s the best cook?
I’m pretty good at making roasts and spicy chicken. Purds is a pesto or carbonara pasta kind of guy. But Cal is worst again making chicken and sweetcorn with no sauce – Pretty dry.
Any hobbies?
I like a bit of fishing and shopping. We have a cinema card too so we go there quite often. We’re pretty cultured to be honest.
Watched any good films recently?
American Sniper and The Theory of Everything. Both in my Top 5 films of all time.
If you could have three special dinner guests?
Johnny Depp. I like him as an actor. He plays himself very strange so I’d want to know the real him. The other two would have to be Megan Fox and Jessica Alba for obvious reasons.
If you could be any other sportsman?
I’d be a wide receiver in the NFL plucking balls out of the air. Just need to lose a few pounds and become incredibly quick. Not that far off what I am now really.
What annoys you the most?
Easy! People who don’t move from the middle lane on the motorway. It drives me nuts. People who walk on the road when there’s a path next to them.
Best and worst banter at Gloucester?
I can list five names for the worst but Matt Kvesic tops the list. He has the worst chat and just never knows when to stop. Our Aussie centre Billy Meakes is probably the best.
Best and worst dressed?
Worst is Matt Kvesic again. The guy just lives in Adidas. Best would have to be Dan Robson.
Personal goals for the season?
Trying to get my regular starting position back.
