With George North, Leigh Halfpenny and Jonathan Davies all itching to return to the fold, Priestland faces a fight to keep his place in Warren Gatland’s squad for the visit of Ireland.

But with Priestland in line to face Irish counterpart Jonathan Sexton in the Scarlets clash with Leinster on Friday night, Davies says he can put his name in the frame for a starting spot alongside clubmate Stephen Jones and Ospreys star James Hook.

“Rhys is looking extremely sharp and very confident and is on top of his game at the moment,” said Davies..

“He is disappointed not to have been given more chances at international level than he already has.

“That enthusiasm is what you want from your players. They are quality players. They haven't had much game-time with Wales so they need that game-time.

"And I think having been exposed to the international environment and to the international game, they are all desperate to get more rugby under their belt. So it is great to have them back."