A real grafter

Danny Grewcock ambles into the room and fills a chair. It's safe to assume that he views the media sprawl that accompanies the week leading up to a Test match as something to be endured rather than enjoyed. It's a stance adopted by many players, but some camouflage their disinterest in a more verbose fashion.

Grewcock is far from rude or discourteous. Indeed his parting remark is apologetic: "Sorry, not too interesting," a reference to a potted biography and his views of Saturday's match.

His preferred method of expression is actions, not words.

Those actions have not always stayed within the parameters of the laws. The Australians took a dim view of his combative play in a couple of games during the Lions tour: but although he sails a little close to the wind in terms of discipline, it is emblematic of his fierce commitment rather than latent malice.

Grewcock is not a natural rugby player but a man who has grafted his way to the top. It is a view borne out by England colleague Richard Hill. "When he came to the club (Saracens), he struggled to hold a pass. He wasn't a natural, but he was prepared to work until he got things right. He has made himself the player he is."

The England second row concurs, attributing his work ethic to his parents who offered no background in sport but instead instilled a commitment to being the best that he can. On Saturday, with Martin Johnson absent, one senses that Grewcock will be striving to minimise the vacuum left by the team's spiritual leader.

When asked what is his best quality, Grewcock offers: "If I have a strength, it is my mentality."

He believes the Lions will not necessarily be the summit of his career, the scope for improvement is still pronounced. "I think that I can improve myself in lots of areas. It was amazingly pleasing to be picked in the (Lions) squad in the first place with such a group of talented and great players.

"To just get the edge on the other guys and make the Test side was very pleasing, satisfying. At the end of the day we didn't reach our targets, win the games we needed to win. But that's cool and that's gone. There are new challenges ahead."

One of which is the Ireland game. "I expect to face a very good Irish side. There's a lot of talk of the Grand Slam, but that doesn't matter come game time, the Irish will be fired up. They are going to be as keen as ever to beat England. They're coming off a good victory in Cardiff. They have a lot of advantages really."

Grewcock finds it easy to relax, even among the bustle and rigorous timetable of an international week.

"There is no point stressing and getting uptight now because it's not going to help come the game on Saturday. In training I have got to get my head on and focus, but when I'm not I want to make good use of my time and try and enjoy some quiet times."

In striving to be the best he embraces a positive appraisal of his shortcomings. "Being open to criticism is how you improve, realising where you went wrong: if you don't realise your mistakes then you will never put them right."

He's looking forward to Saturday, the pressure, the occasion, the physical examination.

"I like to get myself ready in my own way; no headbutting, shouting and screaming. Everyone prepares differently and I'm happy for them to do their thing."

Outside of a victory on Saturday what does he want from the sport? "My goals are personal. I know that if I work hard I can be better in all aspects of the game."

To be remembered? "As a good, honest, hard-working player. In fact, as long as they remember me, doesn't matter what for, I'd be pleased."