Kerr keen to earn new deal in capital
DAVID FERGUSON

RORY Kerr last night declared himself pleased with a surprise return to professional rugby in an Edinburgh jersey, and admitted he is seeking a new contract in the capital.

Kerr, from Strathendrick, made his name with Glasgow Warriors, the winger winning caps at all age levels and earning three full Test caps in 2002-3. He was released by Glasgow in 2005 and decided to take a year out, travelling around New Zealand with a friend and putting his farm background to good use with sheep-shearing work and the odd bit of rugby.

However, now 25, he returned to Scotland in the summer eager to play again at as high a level as possible. Glasgow Hawks signed Kerr and he played against Hawick on Saturday, but with Edinburgh losing Francisco Leonelli to Glasgow the pro team are short of cover in the back three and Greig Oliver, the Gunners' academy manager, offered Kerr the chance yesterday to put his face back in the frame.

Kerr said: "I really enjoyed my year out and feel refreshed and keen again. I had nearly seven years in the pro game and never really played club rugby, so it's been great being at the Hawks and I'd love to play a part in helping them turn things around and get back on track this season.

"But there's no doubt that I'd like to get back into pro rugby. I'm training every day with Edinburgh and their style of rugby really suits me, so I'm enjoying it hugely. In fact, I think the year away has done me a world of good; you get in a rut, and can become very stale in pro rugby year after year, especially when you're struggling.

"But, I have a different outlook on rugby, and life since coming back, and we'll just see what happens. Unfortunately, today I was struggling with a knock I got at Hawick, but I was desperate to play against my old 'weegie' friends. It was a bit strange in an Edinburgh jersey, but I am keen to get myself fit because I'm still pretty young and still feel I've got a lot to give Scottish rugby. Hopefully, I'll get another chance."

This article was posted on 20-Sep-2006, 07:05 by Hugh Barrow.