Pepper 'embracing challenge' at Bath

Guy Pepper has played in six Premiership games for Bath since joining this summer

Bath back-row Guy Pepper said he is embracing the challenge of fighting for his position since joining the club this summer.

The 21-year-old made the move from Newcastle Falcons, where he came through the club's academy, and has made five Premiership appearances so far this season.

Pepper, who has long been highly rated and tipped for a future England career, signed a three-year deal at the Recreation Ground.

"The players they have here in the back row are very exciting for me to learn off. [I'm] embracing that challenge and good competition for me," he told BBC Radio Somerset.

"I want to get better as a player, and so far every day I'm having to work for that to get my nose into this team. I'm really enjoying the challenge."

Earlier this season, Bath head of rugby Johann van Graan compared the 6ft 3in flanker to former New Zealand captain Richie McCaw, which Pepper said was "pretty special".

"I've had chats with Johann, and I think I'm heading in the direction I want to be at. We're only six games into the Premiership," Pepper said.

"I'm still going to work hard and make sure that when we come to that business end, I'm still in and around the squad, fighting for my position.

"I'm happy where I am at the minute, but the work's not really done yet."

Pepper, whose dad Martin played for Harlequins during his rugby career, has represented England through the age grades.

He was part of the England A side that demolished Portugal 91-5 in February was called up by head coach Steve Borthwick for England's final Six Nations match against France, although he did not make it onto the field for his debut.

Pepper said, however, that his focus is on playing regularly for Bath for the time being.

"For me personally, the competition at Bath is something that I've got to challenge, and I've got to make sure I'm putting my foot down at Bath and get game time here and fight for that competition," Pepper said.

"I'm focused solely on Bath at the minute, and if international comes then we'll see what happens."