Noon wants to grab centre stage against Munster after getting lost in France

Jamie Noon has disappeared from Martin Johnson’s radar since moving to France, but he sees today’s Amlin Challenge Cup clash with Munster as his chance to lay down a marker. Alan Good talked to Brive’s Mr Dependable

THE first thing Jamie Noon says is sorry. He is ringing to say he’ll be late for the interview; he’s got the builders in, and they’ve sauntered into his house in Brive-la-Gaillard 40 minutes behind schedule, without as much as a shrug.

“Not even an apology. How very French!” he jokes upon his arrival. Broad of shoulders, jaw and Yorkshire tones, Noon is a reassuringly friendly, personable fella. He even pays for the coffee.