Jamie Noon is looking forward to his latest chance to impress British & Irish Lions coach Sir Clive Woodward with relish as the England centre’s club Newcastle take on French champions Stade Francais in the European Cup on Saturday.
Noon’s sensational hat-trick in England’s Calcutta Cup match with Scotland sent out all the right signals ahead of the squad announcement for this summer’s tour to New Zealand, and the player reckons the Falcons can provide just as much of a showcase for his talents.
"When we click as a team, we take some serious stopping," said Noon.
"To run out in a Newcastle shirt in front of 45,000 people is just as exciting as any Test match.
"These are the sort of occasions that inspire you and make you want to get involved in rugby in the first place."