Moody happy to be back

England flanker Lewis Moody has admitted it felt “amazing” to be back playing again after nine months out on the sidelines.

England flanker Lewis Moody has admitted it felt “amazing” to be back playing again after nine months out on the sidelines.

The Leicester Tigers star played for an hour in the 30-20 EDF Energy Cup win over Sale on Friday, having been sidelined with injuries to his hip and Achilles.

And although disappointed not to have played for the full 80 minutes, the 30-year-old Moody was delighted to be back in action.

“When I came off I felt like I could carry on playing for another 80 minutes,” Moody told the Leicester Mercury.

“The coaches took me off because they wanted to make sure that I came through it with no damage to my Achilles or hip. Thankfully, I came through it perfectly.

“The lungs were hurting a bit but it was amazing to get back out there.

“I was just getting my second wind in the second half and they took me off.

“At that stage I felt like I could have played another game.

“I live to play rugby and there is nothing that drives me on more than the chance of getting back on the pitch.

“Fitness comes with playing and I could do without the break next week.”