PAUL Gustard says he has learned a lot about himself during Harlequins' struggle to ignite their season.
He admits it has been a harsh education for a squad decimated by injuries, especially in the centre, but is confident everyone at the club will be stronger mentally once they have battled through the tough times.
Gustard's attempt to build on last season's fifth position in the Premiership has been badly disrupted by a spate of injuries which has caused a lack of consistency on the field.
They have managed just five wins from 14 European and Premiership games, resulting in them failing to progress in the Champions Cup and now sit eighth in the league table.
The are without props Joe Marler and Kyle Sinckler on England duty as Gustard's old club Saracens arrive at the Stoop today He says: “Over the last eight or nine weeks we haven't got the results but our performances have been much improved. Yet, despite all the adversity we have been dealt, despite the injuries, and criticism we have received, we are still fighting and we will come through this.
“And once we have come through this we will be a very good team. You learn a lot about yourselves and what you can and can't do when you have your backs against the wall – you have to find ways to be better.
“I've learnt about myself, about dealing with stress and with adversity, and we will grow together.”
Gustard, below right, was delighted with the ability and application shown by the posse of young guns he threw into action in the battling defeat at home to Clermont Auvergne last weekend.
He will continue to give the likes of centres Luke Northmore and Tom Penny, wing Cadan Murphy, flyhalf Brett Herron and others the chance to shine and put the pressure on more experienced members of the squad.
He said: “As a rugby fan, and England fan, I'd be proud of a team like Harlequins which is largely English. The one which played Clermont had an average age of below 23. Some were making their debut, some their second appearance.
Young academy graduate Jack Musk is 19 and played 80 minutes against one of the most fierce scrumaging front rows in world rugby.
“All of these youngsters earned the right to be selected, and they certainly showed the potential they have. We believe here that if you are good enough you are old enough. Age does not come into it.” Quins have signed South African centre André Esterhuizen from Super Rugby side, the Sharks.
The 25-year-old, who has played eight Tests for the Springboks, will join ahead of next season.
