Set to return: Lee Byrne
Wales full-back Lee Byrne is determined to be involved in the matchday squad when his country face Ireland in Saturday's Six Nations opener in Cardiff.
The 32-year-old has been a vital player for Clermont during their march to the Heineken Cup quarter-finals but is focussed on making the most of his international return after an absence of more than a year.
"It is one step at a time but I would be disappointed if I am not involved against Ireland - and I am not here to make up the numbers," he told the ERC website.
"Leigh Halfpenny is playing well at the moment and has taken his chance well.
"And there are other young players coming through as well but I am just focused on trying to get into the matchday squad.
"It is just great to be back in the squad."
Comments
pierredelot1 says...
It will be good to see Byrne back in a Welsh shirt, on form he is a natural and he's playing really well for Clermont this season. Good defence, great boot and the ability to choose great lines, what more do you want.
Posted 11:22 29th January 2013
ArmchairGeneral says...
Carpelone: you mean emulating the English over the last year with Foden/Brown then Goode/Brown. You couldn't say "emulate England" though could you :-)
Posted 18:56 28th January 2013
ArmchairGeneral says...
Halfpenny on the wing also brings back a dash of the Shane whereas two big ones seems to dull the Welsh attack.
Posted 18:52 28th January 2013
carpelone says...
heathy
I agree. This will give Wales an extra back cover, emulating New Zealand approach of the double fullback plus a powerful finisher out wide.
Posted 16:32 28th January 2013
heathy says...
For me he would be the number 15 for Wales with Leigh Halfpenny on the wing. Don't get me wrong here as LH has been the standout performer for Wales for a couple of seasons now. However, there is no-one better at cutting an angle and breaking a line like Lee Byrne. He's an excellent fullback and is playing some good stuff in France. Reliable under the high ball and has an excellent boot. Leigh Halfpenny has also been supurb and that is why, with his speed, he is also suited to the wing (and let's be honest, he's played there plenty of times). Back three of Byrne, Halfpenny and North (all playing to their potential) would make Wales' attack potent.
Posted 15:01 28th January 2013