Rugby: Dan could be just the man

May 1 2008 by Gary Marsh, Cynon Valley Leader

CARDIFF Blues coach David Young has admitted New Zealand legend Dan Carter is exactly the sort of world name his side wants to be associated with.

Aberdare-born Young was speaking the Arms Park club said they were shocked to learn of the sudden availability of the world’s No1 fly-half.

Young says the Blues already have their full quota of six overseas stars.

But he made it clear the ambitious region are looking to recruit players of the highest quality as they bid to become a true European superpower capable of winning the Heineken Cup.

It has been announced that Carter is to be given 18-months special dispensation by New Zealand coach Graham Henry to play club rugby in the northern hemisphere next year.

“We are no different to any other team and, when the likes of Daniel Carter or other big names become available, of course we would like to have them here at Cardiff Blues,” said Young, who began his playing career with Aberaman RFC.

“I do not see any team in Europe that would not want the likes of Daniel Carter.

“We certainly have the ambition to bring in new players and we want to strengthen the squad - that goes without saying.”

Blues chairman Peter Thomas, the man who pulled off the audacious coup of landing Jonah Lomu for the Arms Park side, said he would need to talk to Young before discussing Carter’s availability.

“We have not had any contact internally and externally with Dan Carter,” said Thomas.

“We have not discussed Dan Carter in any shape or form and it came as a complete surprise to me that he was leaving New Zealand.

“I honestly don’t know if we would look at him in the future.

“New Zealand are normally very protective of their players so I am surprised by the decision to let Carter have a sabbatical,” he said.

“But I think New Zealand are beginning to realise the inevitability of their top stars wanting to play some rugby in the northern hemisphere.

“So it looks like they are telling the likes of Carter you have a window to go and experience a different culture and play in a different environment before returning home and performing for New Zealand again.”