With two rounds to play and the play-offs in sight, Underhill insisted that the side can be confident through their hard work in training.

He said: “It’s always a big game against Gloucester, especially given how tight the top five in the competition is and we’ve put ourselves in a good position for our season. League wise, it’s a massive game.

“We can be confident in our preparation as much as we can be. We have performed consistently over the last few weeks. I think we’ve done that through our training and our preparation to keep getting better and keep preparing well.

“Obviously, it’s not just another game, it’s a local derby but you just have to prepare for it just like it was another game and not get too distracted by the other things.

“We can be pretty happy with how we performed since rugby has been back. In terms of our performances, what is pleasing is how we have got results.

“In terms of our squad, our rotation and strength in depth, short turn arounds and training, it has all been really impressive. We have put ourselves in a good position now and it is down to us to keep improving and sticking at it.”

Bath Rugby have won six out of their last seven games in the Gallagher Premiership and the England international is eager for the Blue, Black and White to claim their fourth win in a row in the competition but remains wary of the set piece battle ahead.

He continued: “It’s always a big set piece battle isn’t it. It’s always a physical game and they have a pretty talented back line. They like to play as a team as well so it will be about containing that and defending that will be a big challenge.

Set piece is always a crucial part of the game and the physicality of this area will be a big factor. They have a talented back three and have some pretty dangerous ball carriers.

“They have a few individuals that can really get them ticking, but they are a good outfit and they like to play. It’s a challenge across the board.”

Almost eight months have passed since the last time there were supporters at the Rec and the 24-year-old is delighted at the prospect of having 1000 supporters back in the ground.

“It will be awesome having supporters back. We are all excited to get back to some sort of normality, it has been a bit weird without them. We are very much looking forward to having them back.”

Sam Underhill fuelled for West country derby

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