But his individual heroics were tempered by team disappointments with Wales finishing a disappointing fourth in the Six Nations, the Lions’ defeat in South Africa and the Blues’ Heineken Cup semi-final defeat.

And with those memories fresh in his mind Roberts has vowed to step up all aspects of his game ahead of the opening Six Nations clash with England on February 6.

“I now need to work harder than ever,” said Roberts. “Nothing is going to come for free.

“Every gym session I do, every skill session, I have to make sure I’m really on the money.

“Getting picked for the Lions was the high point of my career so far, but it’s gone now. It’s just a page on a bookshelf somewhere.

“I feel fresh and happy with the way I’m playing. Someone has to lose and when we do lose in Wales then the finger is pointed and people claim certain players aren’t performing.

“But Wales will come back stronger and I think the opening Six Nations match at Twickenham will be a real eye-opener.”