Baxter's backing for TJ

By Mark Stevens

Rob Baxter believes Exeter Chiefs will see a fully-charged Tom Johnson when the 2013/14 season gets underway in a matter of weeks.

Having seen his season curtailed prematurely last term following a knee ligament injury sustained in the Heineken Cup game at home to Leinster in January, the 30-year-old forward worked his way back to fitness to be part of England's summer tour to South America.

Johnson figured in the friendly victory over the Barbarians at Twickenham just prior to that tour - and he was also a key figure in the opening match win against a South American Select XV in Uruguay a week later.

However, the all-action back-row ace was not selected for either of England's two victories over Argentina as head coach Stuart Lancaster opted for skipper Tom Wood and the previously uncapped Matt Kvesic on the flanks.

Baxter himself was part of the England tour party, assisting Lancaster in the coaching duties as normal lieutenants Andy Farrell and Graham Rowntree were away on duty with the British & Irish Lions in Australia.

The Exeter leader watched at close quarters the work put in by Johnson, both before and during the tour, and believes the player is in fine fettle ahead of what promises to be another big year for the Devon club.

Speaking in this weekend's Rugby Paper, Baxter admitted Johnson was naturally disappointed not to have added to his five international caps, but is backing his man to keep within the international mix.

"Tom is a very competitive guy and of course he is disappointed not to be in the starting line-up," said Baxter. "He is a real competitor and I know speaking to Stuart he will be in the reckoning.

"He missed a large chunk of the second half of the season through injury, but he is absolutely flying now and I have told him that the tour was part of his pre-season.

"We have got some back-row changes next season with my brother (Richard) retiring and there is a possibility that we will manipulate our resources in a way so Tom plays in all three positions over the season. That will be great for him and for England."