England vs Argentina: Rodrigo Isgro targets England and Marcus Smith

London was the destination for Isgro’s first ever overseas trip, appearing in the attractive, if short-lived, Rugby X event at the O2 Arena in 2019.

Getting used to everyday life in his new hometown of Guildford was difficult. But it would have been more difficult without his teammates — and one in particular.

“Marcus [Smith] “He is a very good friend,” adds the Mendoza-born Esgro.

“He was really good when I arrived in England. He gave up a lot of time for me, as well as being patient and understanding.

“My English wasn’t very good – I didn’t speak it. He’s a really good friend, and he drinks ‘mate’ with me every day.”

In addition to the traditional South American herbal drink – a favorite of Argentine football legend Lionel Messi – England fly-half Smith will participate in training with Esgro.

They linked well together on the pitch too. A quarter of an hour after Isgro made his debut against Bath, Smith cut in blind, crossed upfield and the winger swung the ball over his counterpart’s head for the try.

Isgro scored another goal before half-time and has become something of a cult hero at Stoop ever since, extending his contract in January.

“It was difficult because the language was different, but I grew a lot, both as a character and in the game,” he says.

“It was a really good challenge and now I feel really good. I was afraid before, and now I’m happy because I feel comfortable here.”