GRAYS’ Sam Stanley was part of the England sevens team that contested the latest World Series leg in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

England were slightly disappointing in South Africa, reaching the semi-final of the Plate tournament and finishing eighth overall.

But Stanley, who has just returned from torn ankle ligaments, said it is always a privilege to pull on his country’s jersey.

The 23-year-old said: “It’s a privilege every time I’m able to wear the jersey. My goal for now is trying to cement a place in the squad. Injuries have haunted me during the past few years but hopefully they’re behind me now and I can get going and show my worth.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time here with England and I’d love to carry on playing for them as long as I can.

“The Olympics would obviously be the dream but I feel I’m quite far off from where I need to be to even think about making it at the moment.”