YOUNG London Irish full back Tom Parton is looking forward to the new season as he continues his comeback from long-term injury.

The 21-year-old made a brilliant start to the last campaign with five tries in six games, only to injure his knee and wreck his season.

But as he continues his rehab, he said: “Obviously, it was very frustrating to pick up the injury. No one likes to get injured at any point of their career, but I knew as soon as it happened it was going to be a long journey and process to get back on the pitch.

“I’ve been looked after very well, but it has been an arduous process. I have learnt a lot about myself, that’s for sure.

“I am feeling good at the moment, there is light at the end of the tunnel, although I must tick a few more boxes before I can be fully fit. I am very excited to hopefully be back out there soon.”

The former England U20 international continued: “I am still kicking on with my degree which helped me get away from rugby if I ever needed to. There is no point hiding from the fact that you will have bad days when you just want to be back out on the pitch.

“Seeing all the younger lads like Ben Loader, Jacob Atkins, Matt Williams and Isaac Curtis-Harris gave me that feeling of wanting to be out there with them. However, it also gave me more motivation to get fit for the upcoming season.”

And with Parton chomping at the bit to get back on the field, he cannot wait to test himself in the Gallagher Premiership.

He concluded: “That’s why I started playing the sport, to see how good I could be. There is no bigger challenge than the Premiership. I’m extremely excited to get back out there, kick on and contribute to what is hopefully a successful campaign.”