Sixways favourite Nick Baxter will be taking it easy over Christmas in a bid to be ready for a rare first-team start next Saturday at Henley.

The 27-year-old Worcester Rugby Club star, who has just one try to his name after a frustrating season, is champing at the bit for a chance to impress in the National One clash at the Hawks.

"I'll definitely be keeping on top of things and will be taking it fairly easy over Christmas because we have a tough-looking game at Henley coming up and I want to be ready if called upon," said Baxter.

The winger has seen his first-team chances dwindle with Sateki Tuipulotu, Spencer Bromley and Ally McLean taking centre stage so far this year. However, he insists, he is ready for action when called up.

He said: "This has to be the worst season ever at Worcester for me but my confidence remains high and I am determined to show people what I am capable of.

"I think I'm due an opportunity because other players have come in and done well, I know if I come into the team I will grab my chance with both hands."

Baxter has been supported by dozens of goodwill messages whenever he visits Sixways on match-days and he admits the fans' backing has been a real bonus.

"It's great when people remember you and say 'when are we going to see you in the team'. But I'm a terrible watcher of games -- I'd much rather be out on the pitch.

"It's also nice when opposition fans and coaches ask about you."

Baxter, in his seventh season at Worcester, is still a big name around the country after setting a National League record try tally two years ago with 29. However, he has struggled to convince new coaching duo Geoff Cooke and Adrian Skeggs that he fits into their side.

"I have spoken to them both and they tell me to work on my game defensively. I have been working hard in training but I just need a chance on the pitch to show what I can do. I have had to do a lot of soul searching though this season and had to look deep within myself to see what I could do differently."

"Competition for places at big clubs is part and parcel of the game. Although I do not like not being in the side, there is no point moaning about it."