But it says everything about the unassuming Ospreys star that he is not even taking his starting place for granted when Wales go for Triple Crown glory against Ireland in Dublin on Saturday week.

Wing wizard Williams will, of course, be among the first names on coach Warren Gatland’s team-sheet, such are his mercurial game-breaking qualities.

A single try at Croke Park would haul 31-year-old Williams level with Gareth Thomas on 40 Test touchdowns for Wales, equalling a record it took Thomas 100 caps to compile.

Williams could also get there in a remarkable 45 fewer games, when a 40th try would also see him match the combined tallies of Wales greats Gareth Edwards and Gerald Davies.

That is not bad for someone whose initial rugby aspirations were just to play - and score tries - for his local club Amman United.

Williams said: “I seem to be getting better the older I get - and I hope that can continue for a while.

“I am relishing going out on the field and loving every minute of it. That’s the most important thing, enjoying your sport.

“The day I go out on the field dreading playing or not wanting to play is the day I will hang (up) my boots, but at the moment I am as hungry as ever.

“I am a striker - I enjoy scoring the tries. That’s my job, but I don’t really set myself targets.

“I’ve had seasons when I’ve felt I haven’t scored as many tries as I should have done, and I have worked on aspects of my game accordingly.

“As a wing, you should be scoring tries. That is what you are getting paid to do.

“The last couple of seasons, I’ve scored a number of tries due to the fact I am getting involved in games a lot more. I am a lot happier when I’ve got my hands on the ball.”

Williams’ blistering form this season saw him claim try doubles in the RBS 6 Nations home wins against Scotland and Italy, moving him 10th above French hero Serge Blanco on world rugby’s all-time list.

Thomas and Australian full-back Chris Latham are each one score above Williams - while even the likes of All Blacks trio Joe Rokocoko (43), Jeff Wilson (44) and Christian Cullen (46) could be said to be within touching distance.

Williams added: “Everyone keeps asking me about these tries, but I am trying to avoid it as much as I can.

“To begin with, I have got to be picked for the Ireland game - so let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

“I said before the World Cup last autumn that I felt very sharp. My fitness is probably better than it has ever been, and I am stronger and quicker than ever as well - so I feel very good.

“It would mean everything to break the record.”