Connacht back-row Sean Jansen believes the province can be a top-four team in the URC ahead of the new season.
Last season was a frustrating one for Connacht, as they finished 13th in the URC. The difficulties culminated with coach Pete Wilkins stepping down late in April. In several games, small margins at key moments cost Connacht critical points. These struggles were openly addressed when the new management team arrived, leading Jansen to question how the team ended up 13th.
However, after the introduction of new training methods under Stuart Lancaster, Jansen is looking forward to Connacht’s opening game against Benetton on Saturday with renewed optimism. The 26-year-old sees no reason why Connacht cannot compete with the very best in the league.
“We had our presentations from Stu, and it was like we had good attack stats, lineouts, this and that, but we finished 13th, and why was that?” Jansen said. “We didn’t have to bring anyone in. We had the talent in. Stu is just putting us together, and I feel like we’re clicking really well.”
He added, “I just can’t wait for this weekend, and for us to go out and show everyone what we are. We’re a top-four team, and we’ve the ability to be a top-four team. We’ve got three Lions, how many boys were away with Ireland, six, last summer? How many were with Ireland ‘A’? We have Joah Ioane, an All Black 10.”
“We’ve got so much talent, and it’s not just the 15 on the field. We’ve got 30 to 40 players. The academy lads coming up, young Sean Naughton and Dan Ryan. We’ve so much talent. We just need to all be on the same track.”
Since arriving from Leicester Tigers in 2023, Jansen has made a significant impact in the number eight jersey for Connacht. Had it not been for the depth Ireland have in the back row, he may have already earned his international cap. He has previously been involved with the Ireland ‘A’ side.
Looking ahead to the 2027 World Cup, Jansen is hoping his performances will catch the eye of Ireland head coach Andy Farrell.
“I want to just build on each season and control what I can control. Stuart coming in has been awesome. I’ve had some good coaches in my time, but I’ve taken so much learning from him,” he said.
“My goal is to make that Ireland team. I had that wee sniff with the Ireland ‘A’ team, so I’d love to get in there and represent my grandparents and play for Ireland.”
“But I’ve got to control what I can control and go week by week. There are great players ahead of me, but I think I have the ability if I just push myself. And if the team is going well, that helps.”
https://www.breakingnews.ie/sport/sean-jansen-says-connacht-are-a-top-four-team-1810468.html
