Tompkins won his first cap against Italy in February and was one of Wales’ most consistent performers during the championship. And Wales legend Roberts believes the Saracens centre will go from strength to strength during the coming seasons.
“I thought Tompkins was mightily impressive for Wales this Six Nations,” said Roberts. “I think Nick’s first campaign has been pretty impressive. There’s no doubt about that.
“He’s quick, has got good footwork, his attacking ability on the ball is pretty special, his passing game is good and his defence is going to improve pretty quickly as well. When you are getting exposed at that level and playing multiple games on the bounce you learn pretty quickly.
“I say that from experience. I think he’ll only improve and get better.
“He’s taken to international rugby like a duck to water.” Roberts won 94 caps for Wales and played a crucial role in two grand slam campaigns along with the title winning side of 2013.
And he believes the emergence of Tompkins will help improve some of the country’s other centre’s such as Owen Watkins. He said: “Owen Watkin is younger and it’s a shame we haven’t seen him play more in the Six Nations.
“I think Nick’s emergence is hugely promising and I’m sure there’s other young midfielders in Wales who have seen him take to test rugby like a duck to water and will be thinking if I play well enough for my club or region will mean I get my chance.
“Seeing someone like that come into test rugby is great. Yes he’s had a lot of experience in the Premiership which is a very competitive league which I think has stood him in good stead for test rugby.
“He’s a great motivation for other young midfielders in Wales to really put their hands up.”
