20 Questions: Mark Wilson- Newcastle flanker
We’ve had a real edge in training over the past week. It’s a huge game and we need to be prepared for that.
Do you still focus on performance when the result is so important?
Performance is the main thing – if you think too much about the occasion you can go off track. We talked all week about doing the simple things well and if we do that we’ll come out on top.
What will you have to do to win?
Stick to what we do well. We’re a good side and a physical side around the park. We have a mobile pack who can be strong at the breakdown. That’s how we beat Leicester, Northampton, Bath and Quins.
Anything you must avoid?
We know Irish have some good players who can produce some good stuff. They’ll compete hard at the breakdown because they’ll be desperate to win.
Is there less pressure on you not having to win to stay up?
You try not to think about it. Irish will have nothing to lose so we’ve got to make sure we stay disciplined to stay on the game plan we put together.
Rusty or rested after the week off?
It was much needed after so many games in a row which puts a lot of stress on your body. It worked out well for us and you can see it in training with the boys looking refreshed.
Any risk of being drained mentally ahead of such a big game?
That’s what we get paid for as professional rugby players to deliver in those pressure games. It’s easy to get caught up in the occasion but we’ll try to perform as well as we can under such pressure.
How have you ended up in a battle to avoid relegation?
It’s tough to say. We showed we can compete and beat top sides a few weeks back. But when we go off script in certain areas, teams capitalise on it and we ended up losing narrowly as at Bath and Wasps.
Must be frustrating?
Yes, because if we’d won the games where we were the better side for most of the 80 minutes we wouldn’t be having this conversation. We were our worst enemies at times.
What about your own season?
It was disappointing at the start missing a few games with a small knee operation. I played 18 games after that which was pleasing but our results made it a frustrating season. I just hope we can beat Irish and finish well.
Staying next season?
I’ve got another year on my contract but everything I’m focusing on is London Irish. I’ve been at the club for six seasons full-time so I want to make sure we deliver on Sunday and we can start kicking on.
Would you play in the Championship?
I don’t really want to think about that to be honest. My main focus is on getting as many points from these last three games as possible. It’s all about making sure we stay up and go from there.
What must you improve to avoid the relegation battle in the future?
We’ve got what it takes but we’ve got to become more ruthless and come on the right side of those tight encounters.
Still thinking about an international career?
Definitely! I played against the Barbarians last summer and I still have high ambitions to be involved with England.
Have you read the good Press about you this season?
It’s hard not to think about it when you see your name mentioned but talking to the coaches at the club they remind you that the only way you’ll be considered is with consistent performances for you club.
Favourite cheat meal?
We usually have a pizza in the dressing room after a game. Hopefully Sunday’s will taste good after a big win!
If not rugby, what would you be doing?
Something related to sport or the fitness industry because I always try to keep in shape through running, cycling and playing football.
Three special diner guests?
Rob Brydon, Nigella Lawson and Paul Merson.
Best and worst banter at Falcons?
I’m pretty bad so I’ll take worst and give best to Scott McLeod and Alex Tait.
Best and worst dressed?
Scott is the best again but Mouritz Botha is definitely the worst.
