Payne primed for Clermont clash

THIS time last year Shaun Payne was a key member of the Munster team battling through the qualifying rounds of the Heineken Cup.

Now, however, he’s finally exchanged his track suit and boots for the suit and tie in his role as team manager, and as a veteran of 33 European appearances, he insists Munster won’t be fazed by whatever side Clermont coach, Kiwi Vern Cotter, puts on the Stade Marcel Michelin pitch on Sunday.

“We can speculate all we like on French selections and who they put in their sides and who they don’t,” said Payne. “But on the day, you know you’re going to have to perform to the best of your ability, especially when they’re at home.