Hook retains huge Wales aspirations

JAMES HOOK has underlined his “huge aspirations” to continue playing for Wales after securing a reputed £1 million (€1.1m) deal with French club Perpignan.

Hook is set to make his Perpignan debut after the World Cup in New Zealand later this year, having agreed terms until 2014.

Hook’s three-year contract, which officially starts in July, includes release for all pre-World Cup training with Wales, plus tournament warm-up Tests during August against England (twice) and Argentina.

The 25-year-old will also be available for all matches covered by the International Rugby Board Test windows, although anything outside of that would require Perpignan’s approval.

“There aren’t clauses in the contracts where you have, say, that extra game (Test match) in the autumn. It is down to the goodwill of the club, down to the relationship of the club and the player,” said Hook’s agent, former Wales lock Derwyn Jones.

“We have had assurances that James will be available for all international matches. He will join up with Perpignan after the World Cup.

“There are no certainties. It is the same for James Hook, Jonny Wilkinson and every player playing in France.

“When you are making a move like this, you can’t base a decision on that you will be playing for Wales in two or three years’ time or the availability for one (extra) international a season.”

Hook, a high-class operator at fly-half, centre or full-back, is poised to win his 48th cap in next week’s RBS 6 Nations opener against England.

And he revealed that he had spoken with Wales coach Warren Gatland and national team backs coach Rob Howley about his desire to play in France. “I still have huge aspirations to play for Wales, and I want to be involved in as many games as I can,” said Hook, who announced his Perpignan move at a press conference in the picturesque north Wales tourist village of Portmeirion.

“I have spoken to Warren and expressed my desire to go over there, and in fairness he has been great and said he is not going to hold me back.

“Ultimately, it was my decision, but Warren and Rob have been great, and the Ospreys coaches have also given me support after I announced my decision to leave.’’