The former Osprey is in the running for a European and domestic double with club side Clermont Auvergne but he also has his eyes cast further ahead to Wales’ summer tour of Australia and the Lions’ trip Down Under a year later.
“I’m really enjoying things. I’m in a good place and I’m happy with my rugby. Playing behind this Clermont team is unbelievable. We just want to keep on pushing now,” said Byrne, who had to watch Leigh Halfpenny make the Wales No15 shirt his own as Warren Gatland’s men claimed Grand Slam glory earlier this season.
The focus this week is European domination as Clermont take on Heineken Cup holders Leinster in the semi-finals and simply being in the last four represents a change in fortune for the 31-year-old.
“It was third time lucky for me in terms of quarter finals after losing with the Ospreys,” added Byrne, who will go head-to-head with Lions team-mate Rob Kearney in battle of two of Britain and Ireland’s top full backs.
“I’ve got Grand Slams, the Lions, but this is the pinnacle of your club career. Winning a Heineken Cup would top it all off really. It’s the biggest club competition in Europe. We’re right in the mixer and we just need to keep our momentum going and build on that.
“It will be a great battle with Rob as well. Rob’s playing well and he’s at the top of his game.”
Byrne knows performing well for his club is the best way to put pressure on Halfpenny ahead of the three-Test series with the Wallabies in June.
The Blues star was in sensational form in the Six Nations but Byrne has also looked back to his best during his spell in France.
And having experienced life with the Lions in South Africa in 2009, Byrne admits playing for Britain and Ireland’s elite in 2013 will also be on his mind if he gain regains his Wales place.
“Oh yeah, of course. I want to put myself back out there, and there’s no better way than the Heineken Cup. Playing in these big games is like playing in international matches.
“We’ve got the summer tour, autumn internationals and the 6 Nations on the agenda first, though.”
