Director of Rugby: Conor O’Shea
Head Coach: John Kingston
Captain: Joe Marlar
Position: 2013/2014: 4th
Predicted Position 2014/2015: 5th
Harlequins Season Preview
Conor O’Shea has done a fantastic job at Quins since taking over in March 2010. His teams have over achieved and O’Shea should be commended on his side’s accomplishments to date.
Quins may struggle to hold on to their top 4 position this season, mainly due to the quality of signings other teams have made. Quins have recruited Marland Yarde and Asaeli Tikoirotuma for the wing positions but have only added academy players to their forward pack.
They have also lost some experienced quality forward operators in Maurie Fa’asavalu, Tom Guest and Nick Kennedy. The players they have promoted are extremely promising but are unproven at the Aviva Premiership level.
On a positive note for Quins fans, their first 15 is arguably the best in the league and if they stay fit, it could be a successful season. Joe Marlar has been announced as the Club Captain. Chris Robshaw and Nick Easter are, as always, key to the side, while Kyle Sinckler will be keen to add to his impressive debut season.
Nick Evans, Danny Care and Mike Brown are the star names in the backs and their fitness, along with Yarde’s, will be vital if Quins are to be successful. If any of these players suffer a long term injury, Harlequins will be in trouble.
Players In:
Sam Twomey (Second Row)
George Merrick (Second Row) from Academy
Jack Clifford (Back Row) from Academy
Sam Stuart (Scrum Half) from Academy
Charlie Walker (Wing) from Academy
Marland Yarde (Wing) from London Irish
Asaeli Tikoirotuma (Wing) from Chiefs
Players Out:
Maurie Fa’asavalu (Back Row) to Oyonnax
Tom Guest (Back Row) to London Irish
Tim Molenaar (Centre) to London Welsh
Sam Smith (Wing) to Worcester Warriors
Nic Mayhew (Prop) Released
Paul Sackey Retired
Nick Kennedy Retired
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