Johnny Williams believes the intense scrap for centre stage is driving everyone to higher standards this season.
Williams, Eddie James, the fit-again Joe Roberts (all Wales internationals) and the emerging Macs Page have all enjoyed game-time in the Scarlets midfield this season.
Williams, one of the Scarlets’ standout players; James – player of the match against Zebre – and Page with some stunning individual tries have all grabbed the headlines, while Roberts looks determined to make up for lost time after returning from a long-term knee injury.
“With the new generation coming through I’m one of the older ones at 28,” smiles Williams, speaking to the media this week ahead of Saturday’s West Wales derby against the Osprets.
“These boys are young and have got serious potential.
“It’s really good to have that competition in the squad to drive us so there’s no complacency. We have the beauty of learning from them as well.
“They’ve got skill sets which typically complement a 12 and 13 with Macs’ pace and footwork along with Eddie’s size and handling ability. They are going to be class players.
“They are young, but with time in the saddle, they are going to be class players. But they aren’t just ones for the future, they are good players now. They are just going to get better and better.”
Looking forward to the derby clash in Swansea, Williams said: “We’re excited. This is a big game, there’s no secret about that, it always is against local rivals. It’s a West Wales derby and there’s a lot at stake.”
Asked about the Scarlets form this season, Williams – a try-scorer in last weekend’s Challenge Cup win over Black Lion, added: “We are much improved from last year, performances have been like night and day.
“Competing and staying in the fight is a big focus for us and we’ve been close with a few performances. This weekend it’s about getting over that line, getting that W.”
And what kind of reaction does he expect from the Ospreys following the shock departure of head coach Toby Booth this week?
“I think they’ll be revved up,” adds Williams. “I think it will galvanise them and I think they’ll be coming at us pretty hard.
“They are at home as well and they’ve got a good record against us at home. We are aware of that and we know we need to put that right.”