20 Questions: Tom Homer – London Irish full-back

Has your injury cleared up?
Yes, thank goodness. I had a grade 2 MCL strain on my knee which wasn’t getting any better, so I had to get it sorted. It’s all good now and it’s great to be back.
Frustrating start to the season for Irish?
We’ve gone through a rough patch but we feel we’re taking strides forward. It’s a new squad and new coaches but each week it feels like we’re building.
Still optimistic for the season?
Definitely. We want to win all our home games and make the Madejski Stadium a hard place for teams to come. We want to climb the Premiership table, do well in the cups and be in the mix for silverware.
Second thoughts over extending your contract?
No! I’m delighted to have signed again. I’ve been with London Irish for four years and I’m happy here. It’s a seriously talented squad.
Teenage rugby idol?
Jonny Wilkinson, because of his kicking. Most inspirational, though, was his mental attitude and how professional he was.
Kicking’s one of your fortes… what’s your range?
I kicked one last season from 56 metres with a few metres to spare. I don’t know my range but I’d like to think I could put it over from anywhere inside the opposition’s half.
What must you do to get into the England reckoning?
Counter-attack and decision-making are things I’m focussing on and I’m trying to master my craft each week. I’d also like to join the line as first receiver and be more of a playmaker.
How do you chill-out?
I love my music. Hip-hop and R&B are my genre and at the moment I’m listening to Kid Cudi and A$AP Rocky. They’re up and coming artists.
Play any instruments?
I tried to play guitar and failed. I didn’t have the patience. But I’m going to give the piano a crack.
Hear you like comic books?
It’s true… cartoons and comic books. I’ve always liked a bit of escapism and I love the artwork and storylines. I’ve got subscriptions to Superman and Batman and I’m a huge fan of the films. I’ve watched them all. It doesn’t go down well with my room-mate, though, who’s not too keen on the Cartoon Network.
Your room-mate is?
Jon Fisher. He’s an awesome bloke but I’ve had to get used to doing the washing up.
Who cooks?
We both do. He’s one of those ‘gluten-free’ types whereas I love my breads and pastas.
What’s your speciality dish?
Bangers and mash with gravy! I make a very good banoffee pie as well. I’ve got quite a sweet tooth.
Enjoy London life?
Love it. I enjoy shopping and it’s good to get out and about away from rugby. I’ve got a few different interests and try to see various concerts and stuff.
Any particular area in London you hang out?
I like Shoreditch. It’s quite a hip area and it’s good for clothes and shoe-shopping, which I’m into.
Best and worst dressed at London Irish?
Jon Fisher’s the best. His fashion sense is quite ‘out there’ and pretty extravagant, a bit like mine. Worst is Alex Corbisiero… jeans and trainers, a right scruff.
Other sports you like?
NOT football! I’m a huge fan of American sports, particularly NFL and basketball. I support the Carolina Panthers.
If you could do another sport, what would it be?
I’d be a surfer. I haven’t done too much of it but I love the beach life and would love to travel the world following the waves.
Favourite holiday destination?
I went to Las Vegas a couple of years ago and it’s somewhere you must go. The party lifestyle is fun and it’s a massive release from a high-pressure environment like rugby.
Other places you’d like to visit?
I’m a huge fan of the States so I’d like to spend a bit more time there. But I would also like to visit places like India and travel the world a bit.