JACKSON KEEN TO FACE IRISH

PADDY JACKSON and Perpignan are still searching for their first win of the season but he is hopeful of playing against Connacht next weekend at the Sportsground.

The French side lost their 11th league game in a row when they went down 22-11 at home to Bordeaux-begles on Sunday as they cling to their Top 14 status.

Back to back Challenge Cup clashes with Connacht may no longer be top priority for Jackson and Co but he would like to play his part.

“I’m not sure if I will go to Connacht,” said Jackson. “If I go it would be great to play on Irish soil again but that’s up to the coaches so we will just see how it goes.”

Perpignan’s return to the top flight after suffering their first relegation in their 116-year history four seasons ago has been a struggle and they languish bottom of the table, 11 points adrift of Grenoble and another two away from Agen.

Jackson, 26, has been linked with a move to Lyon in the summer and has taken some of the flak in recent weeks.

“I’m really enjoying it and delighted to be back playing. It’s just the noise builds up a bit more when you are not winning and everyone is just anxious to get that win,” he said.

“I’ve never had a run like that, not that I can remember, but these are life experiences and I believe in this team. I think it’s a brilliant group but it just hasn’t clicked for us yet. Every game we have shown glimpses of what we can do.”