Wales full back Kevin Morgan is delighted to see the Newport Gwent Dragons back at the top level of European rugby in the Heineken Cup.
Although reaching the semi-finals of the Challenge Cup last year was a huge boost for the Rodney Parade outfit, he is pleased to be back in the main competition even though they are opening with a daunting trip to star-studded Perpignan.
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"We enjoyed our experiences in the shield, losing out to the eventual winners Clermont, but the big teams play in the Heineken Cup so it is good to be back to measure ourselves against them," said Morgan.
"Last season was good for us because we brought through a lot of youngsters last season and they did well in the shield so we have a stronger squad this season.
"Perpignan away first s probably the toughest game in our group, we played them a couple of years ago so we know just how formidable this is.
"Having said that, it is the first game of the group so hopefully we will be able to catch them a bit cold.
"They have an incredible strength in depth and a lot of money in the bank, it is the envy of most British clubs - you just have to hope you meet them on an off day.
"London Irish and Treviso will also be two really tough games, I played against Treviso a few years ago with Pontypridd and they always have a strong pack.
"We are going in with a lot of confidence after recent performances."