Wales pair Jamie Roberts and Dan Lydiate are both confident that their move to France this season will not affect their involvement with the international set-up.
The duo, who both signed for Racing Metro in the Top 14 for the upcoming campaign, were key figures in the successful British & Irish Lions tour to Australia this summer.
But with the autumn internationals and the 2014 RBS 6 Nations to prepare for, Wales head coach Warren Gatland will be desperate to have his best players available.
And while it will undoubtedly be harder for the head coach to watch many of their games, scrum-half Mike Phillips plies his trade in France as well and both Roberts and Lydiate are confident of future involvement.
“We’re available for all training and all matches,” said centre Roberts.
“The important thing is if you want to carry on playing international rugby you get full international release in your contract.
“And I know myself and Dan have ensured that with Racing Metro.”
And Lydiate insisted that as long as he continues to find his best form with his new club, starting with their season opening 19-14 win over Brive, then there is no reason why Gatland will be overlooking him come the international windows.
“I spoke to Warren before coming out here,” said Lydiate.
“I had to make sure I was still available for Wales and I did do that. Hopefully, it will work well, but I am looking forward to playing with a new set of players and with new coaches.
“They [the Welsh Rugby Union] will work closely with the club, but obviously you are at a slight disadvantage because the coaches are not able to watch you every week.
“I just hope if I am playing well enough that they will still pick me. There is a massive onus on myself to make sure I am playing well out here, and if Racing are successful there is a big chance I will still be selected for Wales.”
