Scotland stand-off and British & Irish Lions hopeful Dan Parks insists he will ignore his critics and focus on beating Wales in their Six Nations encounter at Murrayfield on Sunday.
The Glasgow player has struggled to win over the fans in his 14 international matches since making his debut against Wales in last season’s tournament and he knows he will have to up his game if he is to earn a place in Sir Clive Woodward’s squad for this summer’s tour to New Zealand.
The 26-year-old even came in for flak after the Scots’ victory over Italy, their first victory in the competition in two years but insists he is not feeling under any extra pressure.
"I’m aware of the criticism and I suppose everyone is entitled to their opinion but as long as I have the support of Matt Williams and my team-mates I’m happy,’ he said.
"I’m out there trying to do my best and get results on the board for my country.
"There was so much relief when we beat the Italians and we’ll be out there this week trying to do the same and spoil Wales’ hopes of a Grand Slam.
"I think the fans were wanting an exciting game against Italy, they may have just preferred that we were running the ball rather than kicking.
"But I think the cheer at the end of the match said it all, we got the win and I think they were as happy as we were.
"I don’t feel under any extra pressure. It’s a massive competition and it doesn’t matter who you play, every time you go out and play a test match there is an equal amount of pressure.’
