POOL FIVE

Toulon: Fabian Galthie, a man of substance who knows his mind, is now in charge as coach and will crack the whip. Expect a pragmatic approach with galacticos such as Mamuka Gorgodze, Samu Manoa and Juan Martin Fernandez-Lobbe – the latter in his swansong season – playing the game at their tempo, but look out for the power and pace of Pumas Fecundo Isa by way of a change of pace.

Scarlets: Loads of speed and ambition in the side which succeeded in the PRO12 last season, playing rugby with a smile on their faces. The one big failing of the European Cup has been the failure of Welsh teams to consistently challenge, but Scarlets have the all-court game possibly to change that and, of course, they now have the goalkicking of Leigh Halfpenny, right. Might just be a little short of squad depth at this level. Bath: Like Toulon, they are past winners and have plenty of big names but which Bath will turn up? They can produce power up front and, when in the mood, run in tries from anywhere while their defence can be huge; but rarely do they put all aspects of their game together. If they do they will undoubtedly be in business but Bath fans have been saying and thinking that for a while. Treviso: The Italians’ recent improvement adds an unexpected element to this lively pool and although they won’t quality for the quarter-finals – they never have – Treviso should be much more than the bonus point fodder of recent seasons. Indeed they will be targeting a couple of home wins themselves which would be a massive step forward for them and the tournament. Verdict: Not the easiest to call but the smart money would be on Toulon to take the pool – away wins at the Stade Mayol are still collectors’ items – with Scarlets and Bath in very close contention as runners up. Predicted standings: 1 Toulon (Q); 2 Scarlets (Q); 3 Bath 4 Treviso