London Irish: George Skivington privileged to lead Exiles

George Skivington is preparing for his fourth season with London Irish

London Irish lock George Skivington says he is privileged to have been asked to captain the side in coach Tom Coventry's first season in charge.

Skivington, 32, skippered the Exiles last season and was named the club's player of the year.

"I'm grateful to Tom, he's got the belief I'm the right man to lead the team," he told BBC Radio Berkshire.

Irish will look to improve on their 10th-place finish in last season's Premiership under new coach Coventry.

New Zealander Coventry has arrived at Irish, having previously coached Super Rugby side Waikato Chiefs.

Skivington, who also worked as a specialist coach with Samoa in the lead up to the World Cup, admits a longer than usual pre-season has been a new experience for the squad.

"Things are going to be very different as a team in what we're trying to do this season," he said.

"It's always a privilege when you get asked to be captain.

"But, I think Tom's chosen me as a captain for what I already do.

"I don't think Tom's going to ask me to falsify anything or try and be something I'm not. I'll just approach it as I normally would."