England center Tommy Freeman has disclosed that support from his Northampton coaches aided him during a downturn following the British and Irish Lions tour.
Freeman participated in all three Tests during the 2-1 series win over Australia that wrapped up on Aug. 2 — alongside Maro Itoje and Tom Curry, he was one of only three English players to achieve this and still felt the repercussions when the new season commenced.
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Although he physically rejuvenated during the mandatory five-week rest period post-tour, Northampton’s director of rugby Phil Dowson and head coach Sam Vesty recognized that his “mental state wasn’t in the best spot.”
A decrease in training and match participation allowed the 24-year-old to manage the early phase of the 2025-26 season, and he subsequently engaged in England’s autumn campaign until a hamstring issue arose.
“I struggled without realizing it. I had the five weeks off, my body felt good, but my mental state wasn’t in the best spot,” Freeman stated.
“After going on tours and being away for an extended period, returning feels almost like ‘right, you’re done.’ I sometimes get ill due to the stress, and then suddenly, the relief hits you. It was just a combination of all that.
“Phil and Sam took me aside and inquired if I was okay. I had probably been in denial, insisting ‘I’m fine, I’m fine,’ but they removed me from certain training sessions and a few games, which was really beneficial.
“England also recognized this and helped me re-enter the games in a proper manner.”
Reflecting on his post-Australia vacation, which included visits to Universal Studios and Disney World in Florida, Freeman remarked: “You go on a significant Lions tour after playing 34 games.
“It’s a considerable amount of rugby, and I could have managed my downtime better and perhaps not gone on as many rollercoaster rides, maybe just relaxed in the sun.
“Without realizing it, I think I was fatigued. My body felt ready, but I believe mentally it was a bit more challenging.
“I can’t quite articulate the feeling, to be honest; it was just a blend of ups and downs, really. It took an additional two weeks to feel okay.”
Freeman is anticipated to maintain his center partnership with Northampton teammate Fraser Dingwall, which had its fourth Test appearance in Saturday’s 31-20 loss to Scotland.
Ireland will visit Allianz Stadium for the next match in the Six Nations, and Freeman acknowledges that his transition from wing, where he has earned the majority of his 24 caps, is still a work in progress.
“There’s still a lot to learn,” he noted. “Playing center allows you to experience many different aspects. It’s important to understand that each game is unique. Every center brings something different to the table.”
