Lions Tour: Austin looks for more than minor role

Austin Healey is determined to battle on in pursuit of a Lions Test place - despite landing a bench role for the third successive tour match.

The Lions' super-sub will again be among the replacements for Saturday's clash against SQueensland Reds at Ballymore.

But Leicester's Heineken Cup final man-of-the-match has not given up trying to secure a Test starting berth that his many admirers feel he deserves.

A spot in the Lions Test 22 seems certain, yet Healey, who has played scrum-half, fly-half and wing for England, could ultimately become a victim of his own versatility.

Taken on tour as a scrum-half, he is contesting that role with Wales' Rob Howley and England team-mate Matt Dawson ahead of the Test series against Australia, which starts in just over a fortnight's time.

Healey's special all-round ability though, provides Lions coach Graham Henry with one selection certainty - he must find a place for him somewhere.

"Austin is an exciting rugby player who gives you a lot of options," said Henry.

"He's a player who provides spark and vision, and he is a winner."

Healey is likely to start when the Lions tackle Australia A in Gosford next Tuesday, and will relish that opportunity if it unfolds.

"I am not conceding any Test positions yet," he said.

"I just wanted to have a good tilt at number nine to start with, but it is difficult when there is three of us.

"And while it is hard for everyone to get a fair crack of the whip, you just have to get on with it. Hopefully, I will be given a starting place at some stage."

Healey made quality contributions after going on against Western Australia and the Queensland President's XV, and he can expect another outing this weekend.

"I am happy not knowing where I am going to train or play," he added.

"I don't think that I would like to wake up every morning, thinking I was going to be playing in the same position all the time."