Tiger Stripes to Cherry and Whites.

I had flirted with moves away from Leicester once or twice but never really went beyond discussions. Mostly, it happened when my contract was running out, either as a negotiating tool or to explore my options in case Leicester decided I wasn’t part of their plans. In all honesty, it would have taken a lot to leave the club. Ultimately, it required a push for me to go.

I loved playing for Leicester: its famous history, the brilliant Welford Road, and, of course, the fantastic support. I appreciated the no-nonsense attitude that had been built by so many successful people and players before I got there. The club had a business-first mentality but also benefited from so many quality players who set the standard.

When things became difficult in 2017, with Richard Cockerill and Aaron Mauger leaving within a short space of time, the club searched for a suitable replacement. Unfortunately for me, that replacement turned out to be Matt O’Connor.

Some players were asked about our opinions on potential coaches, and when I found out Matt was one of the candidates, I was quite clear that I didn’t feel he was a good fit. Ultimately, though, it was the club’s decision to make, and I was paid to play. When it was announced that O’Connor was joining, I resolved to get on with the job.

I wasn’t prepared to be called in by Matt and told that he had heard I hadn’t been supportive of his appointment. Naively, I had believed the conversations I’d had were confidential, given that I was asked for my opinion. I left the meeting feeling wary, and I’m sure he felt the same.

That summer, during preseason training, I heard rumours that Jonny May was trying to leave Gloucester and wanted to join Leicester. I didn’t think too much of it—if it happened, great; if not, you move on. After about a week of whispers, I heard about the idea of me being offered in a swap. Leicester was unwilling to pay a fee, and Gloucester had asked about trading me instead, a proposal O’Connor jumped at.

When my agent called to discuss the idea, I rejected it outright. I didn’t even want to entertain it. I had a year left on my contract, and Leicester was my club. I didn’t see why I should leave, especially at such short notice with a young family.

It became increasingly clear that O’Connor and Jonny were desperate to make the deal happen. Gloucester understandably wouldn’t let Jonny go for nothing. I was called into another meeting with Matt to discuss the move, but I reiterated that I wasn’t interested. My decision didn’t go down well.

I knew this was being driven by Matt, and the situation was becoming difficult for me. Any coach who decides you’re not part of their plans will ultimately get their way, as they control the team and selection. My only leverage was the fact that I had a year left on my contract, so I didn’t have to go anywhere if I didn’t want to. This gave me a decent negotiating position since Leicester was happy for me to leave and Gloucester was keen to get me in return for Jonny.

I decided it would be a good idea to meet David Humphries, so we arranged to chat at a service station on the M5. I had a lot of respect for Humphries because of his playing history and the way he had built a competitive Ulster side in Europe. Gloucester had also secured Johan Ackermann as head coach, who had been very successful with the Lions in South Africa. With a strong squad featuring players like Richard Hibbard, John Afoa, Ben Morgan, and Billy Twelvetrees, Gloucester was building something exciting. I started to take the move more seriously, especially as O’Connor was making things increasingly difficult.

In one last meeting with Matt, things turned into a slanging match. Sensing I still wanted to stay at Leicester, he told me I wouldn’t play another game for the club and that when my contract ended, he would make sure I had to leave. It was becoming impossible. I told him I didn’t care what he said and that I would decide my future.

I hadn’t been helped by Ed Hollis from the medical team, who had given Matt the narrative that my knee was knackered and I didn’t have a season left in me. It was all part of creating a case for the club to agree to the swap.

I went home that day and spoke to my wife about what had happened. I told her I wasn’t going to be forced into anything, but she offered some good advice. She said I shouldn’t cut off my nose to spite my face. She understood I was upset, but it was clear I had no relationship with O’Connor. If I stayed, it would be a difficult season. She said she was up for a change, which gave me the confidence to leave Leicester behind and sign with Gloucester.

On my birthday, I went into Oval Park, grabbed my kit, said a few goodbyes, and left. It was a disappointing way to leave Leicester, but I had to focus on the future. I never spoke to O’Connor again and doubt I ever will; the way he handled everything was exactly what I’d expected from him.

I was looking forward to getting to Gloucester and leaving the drama behind me. In hindsight, I’m so glad I made the move. It led to some of the most enjoyable times of my playing career and some great friendships.