Regardless of his modest character traits off the field, England fly-half Freddie Burns believes there is a need to demonstrate slightly more confident attributes when in battle on the pitch.
Gloucester star Burns, who will push the likes of Toby Flood and Owen Farrell for the No.10 jersey during the Red Rose’s 2013 RBS 6 Nations campaign, is the top points scorer in the Aviva Premiership this term.
His commanding form attracted the attention of Stuart Lancaster and the England head coach handed the 22-year-old his debut in the famous win over world champions New Zealand in the autumn internationals.
Despite kicking two penalties from two as a replacement against the All Blacks, Burns revealed he looked back over his game almost immediately to see what he could have done differently.
And he is sure of the need to stay grounded off the pitch, while going about his usual business when crossing the white line.
“I’ve got a great family around me, and friends, and that does keep me grounded,” said the Bath-born fly-half.
“They always keep my feet on the ground. They’re my biggest supporters and my biggest critics at the same time and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
“But I’ve always believed a certain amount of arrogance is needed when you step on the pitch.
“I question myself on a Monday. I looked back on the game and go through it with Mike Tindall.
“But when I step on the pitch in the no.10 shirt I’ve got to run the show and be fully confident in not just my own ability but also the ability of the team too.
“I like to feel I’m grounded but once you step across the white line you have got to change.”
