Jonny Wilkinson steered Toulon to Amlin Challenge Cup victory over Saracens last night and immediately explained how much he is loving his new life in France.
England's World Cup winning fly-half kicked 16 points in the 31-23 victory over Sarries at the Stade Felis-Mayol as his new side made it two wins from two in European competition.
The 30-year-old made the move across the English Channel from Newcastle during the summer and has since enjoyed an extended run of games without injury.
Wilkinson's presence has helped Philippe Saint-Andre's big-spending side climb to seventh in the Top 14 and his performance in yesterday's win over Saracens capped a fine start to the season.
"To beat Saracens, in the form they are in, is a great result," said Wilkinson, after a brace of tries from Gabi Lovobalavu and another from his former Newcastle team-mate Tom May saw off the Guinness Premiership leaders.
"We have started the season pretty well but the odd match has escaped us over here when we have lost in the last call of the game.
"But things are coming together and it is a great thing to be part of.
"There is a building process going on and the ambition is there and the desire is super-high."
The strength of the side selected by Toulon for the clash with Sarries suggests that one of those ambitions is Amlin Challenge Cup glory.
Yesterday's result confirmed Toulon's position at the top of Pool 3 ahead of December's double header against Rugby Rovigo, as well as highlighting a new-found lease of life for England's most-talked about player.
"Do I see this as a new beginning for me? Yes," added Wilkinson.
"I hope it is something that I can keep going and I can last at. I am just enjoying myself and trying to build on my own performances as well.
"This is a great place to be and it helps to have these guys around me."
