Tindall 'Must Fight' for Contract | Thebigtip

Mike Tindall faces an uphill struggle to keep his place in the team at Gloucester, according to coach, Bryan Redpath. The embattled rugby player, who has also faced difficulties in his personal life, owing to being filmed with a mysterious woman in a nightclub in New Zealand, will not be given another contract by Gloucester, unless he earns it.

The big centre faces competition in the middle of the park from Samoan international, Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu, and English youngster, Henry Trinder. ESPN intimated that, until recently,  Tindall's reputation had been sufficient to keep him in the side but, with increasing pressure from younger signings, notoriety alone would no longer 'cut the ice' with Redpath. Pundits like Will Greenwood will be keeping an eye on things.

However, the Gloucester boss was quick to note that he is not trying to offload Tindall; rather, that he wants the 33-year-old to fight for inclusion in the first team.

"If Mike plays well there is no reason not to keep him on for another year but, if he doesn't, then we sit down and have a discussion and I say: 'Mate, it's not right for Gloucester rugby.'"

Tindall has been a staple of the Gloucester side since 2005, when he transferred from fellow Aviva Premiership side, Bath. He has notched up 65 starts for the south-westerners, over the past six years. Unfortunately, his career has been punctuated by injury, including a broken leg, and the rather more serious condition, a bruised liver. Those following the betting tips need to remember this.

“He's a battler. It's one of his strengths; his durability”, Redpath continued.

Tindall could be asked to prove his tenacity at the weekend, when Gloucester play the Saracens.

Moving on; Gloucester lock, Will James, has experienced mirror-opposite fortunes to Tindall, with regard to signing his future away. The player has penned a one year extension to his contract at Gloucester, a development that will delight local fans. “I'm over the moon”, the imposing Welshman said.