Full-back still the one for Folau

Editor

Despite speculation that he could be used in midfield this season by the Waratahs, Israel Folau's preferred position is still full-back.

Folau has made his name in union in the 15 shirt with his ability under the high ball and the threat he poses attacking open space.

However the departure of Adam Ashley-Cooper has left the Waratahs with a hole at 13 and during pre-season there had been a suggestion that Folau would be moved to fill the void.

Now though the 26-year-old isn't sure if he'll feature in midfield at all in 2016, even if he is open to the switch.

"Definitely my preferred position is full-back," Folau told the Sydney Morning Herald.

"I've spent most of my time playing there so that's where I feel most comfortable. Fifteen [full-back] is probably the position that I know I'll be playing at this stage [in the trial]. I'm not even sure whether I'll play there [outside centre] at all.

"Most people have asked, but we'll see how the season goes. I'm definitely open to it; it's an exciting opportunity to be open to a challenge like that. I'm not sure what the plans are from Daryl [Gibson, Waratahs head coach]. I haven't spoken to him in depth about what position I'll be playing."

Folau is set to feature at 15 for the 2014 champions in their final pre-season against the Highlanders on Friday having worked his way back from ankle surgery – rectifying an injury that had been holding him back throughout the Rugby World Cup.

"I'm pretty confident about how I feel and how the ankle's going, so it'll be good to get out there and play some footy again," Folau said.

"Surgery went smoothly, the rehab's been pretty good, so I haven't spent too much time worrying about the ankle, everything's on track and on time. It was always the plan to have a run on in the last trial going into the first game, so I'm excited.

"It was pretty frustrating during the [World Cup] when I hurt my ankle … so I had to carry that through right up until the final.

"It was frustrating knowing I couldn't play to my full potential, but I did my best and I enjoyed the experience during the World Cup so there was no regrets. It's all done now and I'm looking forward to the season."