Philippe and Nigel are like deux petits pois dans un pod*
NIGEL Davies reminds me a lot of Philippe Saint Andre.
I was saying this to a few of the lads the other day, and trying to put my finger on exactly why.
The way he paces along the touchline, some of his mannerisms and phrases, they are quite reminiscent of Philippe.
Nigel has a great way with words, and can sometimes make quite important points with a smart injection of humour.
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Those issues then stick in your mind, because you remember the specific turn of phrase or the funny anecdote.
Overall, though, it's pretty difficult to pick out the specifics of the similarities, but Nigel has a calm approach to him that is in common with Philippe.
Both men are very passionate and care a great deal about their rugby, and are focused on success.
But both exude a calmness that rubs off on the squad.
Nigel is very honest and direct – but he's always in control, and the boys respect him hugely for all of that.
There's no heavy criticism without good reason, but at the same time he doesn't sugar-coat things.
What will come will come, because it is needed.
But while he will be forthright about shortcomings, he will also outline positive aspects too.
And his approach seems all about balance, and that's important. The players obviously feed off his style, and so far the reaction is very encouraging indeed.
Philippe did a huge amount of good for Gloucester and has gone on to big things elsewhere in his coaching career too, of course.
Nigel's pedigree and experience are clear, and already he has made a great impact at Kingsholm, that we all expect to develop considerably too.
Comments
by Drusus
Thursday, September 20 2012, 11:08AM
“Well thank goodness Gloucester Rugby signed Nigel Davies and not someone like Eddie O'Sullivan (as some Gloucester City football supporter daftly suggested).”