GREG Goodfellow has backed former Canada international Richard Thorpe to be a big success as Chinnor’s head coach.

The ex-London Welsh flanker joined the National League 2 South club on a two-year deal in April, having taken weekly training sessions since the turn of the year.

His input coincided with Chinnor winning nine of their last 15 games to move out of the relegation zone and into the top six.

Scrum half Goodfellow believes Thorpe, who will report to director of rugby, Matt Williams, and be registered as a player, will prove to be a major asset.

“As soon as he laid quite a few foundations – real simple but real direct – for the players to follow it made a difference last season,” said the 30-year-old Scot.

“The performances changed and because of who he is and the manner he speaks, the boys listen straight away. There is no ifs or buts.

“If he is on the park playing as well he will bring a wealth of experience. It is a big, big bonus for him to come on board.”