Watch out for Wade at Dubai Rugby Sevens

Dubai : Ben Gollings, highest points scorer in IRB Sevens World Series history, has given England youngster Christian Wade a vote of confidence ahead of Friday's Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby 7s. Wade impressed for England Under 20s last season and Gollings, believes he will be a key player at this weekend's event.

Excerpts from an interview with Gollings.

You missed out on the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens last year through injury — how hungry does that make you now to get out onto the pitch at The Sevens?

Massively, I did get a taste of it in the World Cup Sevens but I am excited about getting out there this year. It's always such a great atmosphere to play in and it was very frustrating watching last year

How do you rate England's chances this year in Dubai?

We always go out with the aim to win every tournament. However, this year will be an even bigger task than last year with teams improving all the time and the way sevens is growing. It's going to be exciting.

What do you think makes the Dubai tournament so popular?

It's in a great location in Dubai. Also having all the other competitions going on at the same time creates a great buzz and playing in one of the only purpose-built Sevens venues in the world makes it an awesome event. The crowd is electric!

How do you think Rugby Sevens inclusion in the Olympics will boost the game?

I think we are going to see the rise and rise of Sevens due to the Olympic vote. There is going to be greater funding into the sport which is going to make it even more competitive and professional. I believe it's set to explode and what an opportunity for a player to win an Olympic medal.

How are the England team's preparations going for the 7s?

The team are preparing well. The boys have really worked hard on their conditioning in the off season and a really looking to build on where we left off last season.

Who are the players to look out for in the England squad?

Ben Ryan [England coach] has managed to retain most of the players from last season so we will see the likes of Chris Cracknell and Isoa Damudamu back in Dubai this year. We also have some young speedsters coming through — I'd look out for Christian Wade who impressed for England Under 20s last season.