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Leigh Halfpenny has revealed why he opted to stay out in France
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Both the Scarlets and his former team, Cardiff Blues, were very keen to sign the Lions full-back
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The 27-year-old points decided to extend his stay with star-studded Toulon into a third season
Leigh Halfpenny has revealed why he opted to stay out in France rather than return home to Wales.
Talking to the Midi Olympique newspaper, he was asked why he chose to stay at Toulon and not head home.
“Because I’ve loved my first two years here, on the pitch and off it,” he replied.
“But, above all, because I hardly played last season. I couldn’t leave in such a situation.
“My adventure isn’t over. I had to stay to give more to this club.
“I want to give it everything to repay the faith that I’ve received.”
Asked about his future plans, he said: “That’s still a long way off. I haven’t considered this question.
“I’m 100 per cent focused on the start of the new season.
“Give me the time to get back on the pitch. When the time comes, I’ll address this issue. What’s sure is that there will be a lot of things to take into account.”
Another issue facing Halfpenny is that this season’s Top 14 play-offs will clash with the start of the Lions tour of New Zealand, which could put his participation in the trip in jeopardy.
On that subject, he said: “It’s also far off. It’s a big ambition to be part of the Lions.
“Before that, I’ve got to prove myself at Toulon and win back my place in Wales.”
