The 69-times capped Welsh international is currently recovering from a groin operation after Wales’ summer tour to North America, but he is determined to win-back the Welsh number nine jersey for the new season.

“Playing for Wales is still massive for me,” Peel told Waleonline.co.uk. “Nobody is going to say they are happy not being first choice for their country and it does hurt when you are not involved.

“I have played regularly for Wales and had a good run in the side and I want to get back and prove myself all over again.

“Just because I am playing in England doesn’t make me any less of a Welshman and I am very proud to be Welsh.”

The Sale Sharks scrum-half moved to England last summer and endured a mixed first season.

But he hopes to be fit for Sale’s Guinness Premiership opener against Leicester and is acutely aware of how this season could shape his international future.

“This is probably the most important year of my career so far,” Peel continued. “I know it’s a big year for me and I want to show I deserve to be in the Wales side.

“I want to have a really good crack at this season because I don’t think the Guinness Premiership has seen the best of me, mainly due to injuries.

“I don’t think Warren Gatland has seen the best of me since he has been Wales coach either.

“I just need to get a good run of games under my belt and give it my best shot.”