20 Questions: Jonny Golding – Newcastle prop

Three wins from three and 15 points… perfect start for Newcastle?
Ideal start? Yes. Perfect? No. We’re not totally satisfied and while there have been good patches, we’ve dropped off at times. In tougher games that isn’t good enough.
How are you finding the new coaches?
A lot different from previous regimes! With Dean Richards and John Wells there’s a bit of a Leicester mould and there’s a lot more contact work which has made life tougher.
Getting Leicester-style ‘bosh’ sessions on Tuesdays then?
Not just Tuesdays, it’s most days of the week! But it’s what we needed and morale’s very high.
What have you learnt about Dean Richards?
That he’s a fantastic character around the club who demands high standards. It’s little things, like the boys having to clean up after themselves. It’s about standards and respect for the workplace, which goes down well.
Most unusual bonding session to date?
There was one instance where we had to drink out of Oliver Tomaszczyk’s boot during a court session, which was disgusting. We had to drink a beer each as a punishment!
Over your injury problems?
Hopefully. I had a couple of bad years with my Achilles and it put a real dampener on my rugby. It’s been very stop-start over the last couple of years but I’m back to fitness now.
Pleased to hear Deano saying England should look at you again?
It was nice of Dean to give me that mention but I need to keep playing well and help get Newcastle back to the top. Hopefully I’ll stick my hand up again but there’s a long way to go.
How are you finding the Championship?
It’s always been a tough, forward-orientated league. The physicality is right up there from when I played at Rotherham and everyone wants to take your scalp.
Jokers in the pack?
Our lock, Scott Macleod, is a good team man. He’s a great singer, has outrageous fashion sense and he’s the man to pick up the spirits on those long bus journeys home.
Don’t enjoy the bus trips then?
Hate them… worst thing in rugby by far, especially when you’re right down south, have lost and are facing an eight-hour trip home. Hopefully this year we can win a few more.
Cleverest player?
There’s a few smart boys here. The ‘scrabble crew’ of Bobby Vickers, Ally Hogg and James Hudson are probably the brightest.
Worst and best dressed?
Worst is Tomaszczyk, whose dress sense can only be described as interesting! Macleod has to be the best. He likes his double cashmere polo/jumper ensemble… very chic!
Tightest player?
Me! I’m trying to pay off my mortgage so I’m being a bit stingy.
Can you believe ex-Falcons prop Micky Ward is now a citing officer?
No! I only found out a week ago but good on him. He’s a tough old boy and will do it well.
Favourite food and drink?
I love a good curry and enjoy a New Zealand beer Jimmy Gopperth introduced me to called Tui Blond.
Sporting heroes growing up?
I was into motocross when I was young and used to love Stefan Everts, the former champion, and Jeremy McGrath. I didn’t have any rugby heroes.
Superstitions?
None in rugby, but if I’m boarding a plane I have to touch the outside before I get on. Just a little pat to make sure we stay safe!
Best and worst things about rugby?
Best is the feeling you have when you’ve had a good win. Worst is losing and feeling like you’ve let yourself and the club down.
Best rugby moments?
Signing for Newcastle, because being from the area it was a club I always wanted to join, and getting a call-up for the England tour to Australia in 2010.
Ambitions for this season?
For Falcons to keep progressing, play some good rugby and get back in the Premiership and I want to be part of the side that then pushes on to give our fans something to cheer about.