But despite four defeats in their opening five game, a promising showing against Ulster – narrowly losing 19-17 – gives Lineen hope that his side can punch above their weight on the European stage.

"It was both frustrating and satisfying at Ulster," he said, "Satisfying in the way we played against a very strong team but frustrating in that again decisions and composure at key times cost us.

“But the players are working very, very hard, and training very hard, both as a squad and on their own, with a great desire to get better so you have to strike the balance between hitting them hard and encouraging them.

"Now it's the Heineken Cup and it just gets bigger. It's a fantastic competition to be part of and we're excited about it.”