Richard Fussell has revealed that his ambition to play for Wales was behind his decision to sign a two-year contract with the Ospreys.
The 25-year old Newport Gwent Dragons wing has penned a deal that will see him arrive at the Ospreys in the summer after five years at Rodney Parade, and he says that the motivating factor for his switch to Ospreylia was the region's track record in developing players for the national set-up.
Fussell commented:
"I'm excited about the prospect of moving to the Ospreys. I've made the decision purely on the basis of where I feel I can develop my game best over the next couple of years. I've spoken to people about the set-up at the Ospreys and it's all been very positive. They have excellent facilities and a track record in developing players so I see it as a real opportunity for me to kick on another level in my game. If you look at the number of players that the Ospreys bring through for Wales, then it is clear that they are doing something right and I'm looking forward to being a part of it.
"There are some great coaches at the Ospreys, they have exciting plans for the Ospreys and I'm looking forward to working with them. It's going to be a real challenge for me personally to go into that environment and try and make an impact. I realise that they have real strength in the wing position; In Shane Williams and Tommy Bowe I'd say that they've probably got two of the best wingers in the world, and there is also Nikki Walker and some really talented youngsters coming through, so being around players of that quality and working with them day in, day out, and testing myself in training against them can only be a positive thing for me personally. Hopefully, it will allow me to improve my own game to the level where maybe I can get closer to international rugby.
"Clearly, while I'm looking forward to joining up with the Ospreys, there's a lot of rugby to be played between now and the end of the season. I've been at the Dragons for five years, I've really enjoyed my time with them and as a professional rugby player my focus between now and then will be 100 per cent on the Dragons and doing my best for them, which is as it should be."