Hook scored 22 points in Perpignan’s opening Pool 6 defeat at Gloucester last weekend as he crossed for his side’s only try and kicked a conversion, a drop goal and four penalties at Kingsholm.
The former Ospreys playmaker was undoubtedly the star of the show from full back and he knows that European competition is as good a place as any to shine in the lead up to the Dove Men Series at the Millennium Stadium.
“Every player knows they are under the microscope in the Heineken Cup so you don’t need the coaches or anyone else to tell you that,” said Hook.
“I want to keep on playing for Wales and you are always in the shop window in the Heineken Cup. But it’s just important for me to keep playing well for Perpignan and think about getting wins for the team.
“It’s out of my hands – all I can do is play well for Perpignan and if Wales want me I’m available. I don’t think too much about Wales but hopefully that will take care of itself if I am playing well.
“I was happy with the first-half performance but when the rain came down the game tightened up a bit. But I got the ball in space a few times and managed to find some room.
“I’ve enjoyed playing full back and being able to have an influence on the game. The onus is not just on the 10 in France – it’s on the nine, 10, full back, everyone is able to step up. It’s not all on the No 10’s shoulders: the responsibility is spread out across the board and it’s working well so far.”
Fellow Wales international Luke Charteris was back in action for Perpignan in the West Country after a lengthy injury lay off and Hook is among those tipping him for a Test recall already.
Charteris, who was one of Wales’ star performers at the 2011 Rugby World Cup, had been sidelined since December having ruptured knee ligaments but featured for Perpignan’s development side the week before making his first-team return against Gloucester.
“Luke’s an incredible player and it’s great to have him back,” added Hook.
“He was on fire before injury and we saw in his brief appearance against Gloucester that he can tackle, carry the ball and have a big influence on games.
“It’s great for us to have him back for Perpignan and I am sure there will be a lot of eyes on him from the Welsh coaching staff because he is a big player for Wales.”
