'Toulon is the biggest opportunity of my career': Huw Jones

Huw Jones admits that joining Toulon is the biggest move of his career, but playing in the Top 14 is an itch that he’s always wanted to scratch since a move to Bayonne fell through.

The Scotland and Lions outside centre, who has won 63 caps for his country, swapped Glasgow for the Côte d’Azur this summer and is clearly looking to make the most of his time across the Channel at the Stade Félix Mayol.

Jones says he wants to play in big games every weekend, and that Toulon can offer him that, which was a major factor in his decision to make the biggest move of his career.

“I think I’m a player for big games, and the Top 14 offers that every weekend. Deep down, I have always wanted to evolve in France. I am excited about what is coming for me as well as for my wife and my 2-year-old daughter,” he told Midi Olympique.

“I didn’t hesitate for a long time, because I know it’s going to be fantastic on every level. In truth, Toulon is the biggest opportunity of my career. I am really proud to have joined a team that has the potential to win.

“I want to learn from life, from your culture. And, at the age of 32, I want to become a better player and take the club forward. This is the biggest move of my career. I really want to make it work, help this team, and grow as a man with my family.”

Jones was due to move to France five years ago after signing for Bayonne, but the deal collapsed after they were relegated; instead, he kick-started his career at Harlequins, but says he has always wanted to move to France since then.

“The desire to come to France has never left me. It never left my head. Honestly, I was disappointed because I had projected myself in this wonderful place. It had been a big blow. I was, at that time, very far from the national team. I was very worried about my future, and I even told myself that I wasn’t going to be able to get back up the slope.

“I went to Harlequins and had one of the best years of my life. It completely revived me. I returned to Glasgow, regained my place in the Scotland team and was even able to tour with the British Lions. It was a dream.

“I have a new chance to live what I wanted and to show what I can do in France. In life, I’ve learned that it’s all about being in the right place, at the right time. Let’s see what France will bring me, but I am really enthusiastic on all points,” he added.