Hungry: Ryan Jones
Ospreys back-row forward Ryan Jones is determined to add a Heineken Cup title to his impressive rugby CV before he calls time on his impressive career.
The 31-year-old, who has won three Six Nations Grand Slams for Wales and toured with the 2005 British & Irish Lions, wants the coveted European club trophy to cap a strong stint with his region.
"We are really looking forward to this tournament and looking to really lay a marker down," he said ahead of their opening game against Treviso.
"That's a big one for me and it's something I believe we're capable of.
"For me it's the one big thing missing I suppose, one thing I haven't been fortunate in as part of my career."
Also in the Ospreys' group will be French giants Toulouse and English heavyweights Leicester, with Jones admitting it is a tough Pool to escape.
"There's been a significant change that's been well-documented over the last 12 months, really," he said about the loss of players such as Tommy Bowe and James Hook.
"But from the players' point of view the expectation's still sky high.
"We're highly competitive. I certainly know I am and you always look forward to pitting yourself against the best teams in Europe.
"We've really got our work cut out, but I believe we're capable of doing it, but it's about getting out there and getting it done. You'll certainly know after the second round who's firing and who's not.
"You only realise where you are as a team when the final whistle goes. It's going to come down to key fixtures.
"We talked years ago about winning your home games and maybe getting a win away from home would be sufficient. But it's not like that now. You've got to win them all now really, which when you're away to Toulouse and Leicester becomes a very, very tough challenge."
Comments
melkdave says...
He can wish all he likes ,but doig it is a vastly different matter.Toulon if they can bothered look the outstanding team this year,and they just keep signing quality players ,so even their 2nd team now looks class thoughout.Lienster/Ospreys or even Leicester winners this year ,got grave doughts i can tell you!
Posted 13:06 10th October 2012