By Andy Weston

If in-form London Scottish full back Jim Thompson improves on his efforts for London Scottish last season, then the exiles will not be too far off a top four Championship finish.

The 28-year-old scored two of his side’s 13 tries in the 81-12 romp past National One Esher at the weekend as director of rugby Simon Amor’s men closed pre-season preparations on a high.

The campaign kicks-off at Saracens’ Allianz Park home, where Amor’s men take on league new boys Ealing Trailfinders next Saturday as part of the One Big Rugby Weekend.

Former Scotland A star Thompson appeared in all 22 of Scottish’s Championship matches in an impressive first season at the Athletic Ground that also saw him score three tries.

The ex-Edinburgh star is used to rising to the big occasion having helped his former club to the Heineken Cup semi-finals in 2012.

And he revealed the squad has risen to the challenge of competing at the top end of the table, having looked like relegation fodder in the early part of last term.

“We are in good shape and looking forward to next week now,” he said.

“Pre-season has been really positive.

“It has been a real step up from last summer and the boys are looking fit and strong.

“I want to improve on last year, score more tries and do well for the team.

“The club has come on a lot since I first joined and gets more professional by the day.

“I have really enjoyed my year here. The squad is stronger compared with last year with a lot of new guys signed.

“They have settled in well and hopefully we will have a great season.”