Former Scotland captain John Barclay has issued a stirring prediction for Glasgow Warriors, insisting the in-form side is perfectly positioned to mount a serious challenge for the Investec Champions Cup title.
Flying Under the Radar No More
Speaking ahead of the Warriors' crucial away trip to French giants Clermont Auvergne this Saturday, Barclay, now a pundit for Premier Sports, argued that Glasgow's stunning early-season form will soon make them impossible to ignore. The Scotstoun side have won both of their opening pool matches, headlined by a memorable comeback victory against tournament favourites Toulouse in December.
"If they can be pool leaders, there's no reason why they can't push on in the knockout stages," Barclay stated. He pointed to the example of Northampton Saints' run last season as a blueprint, where strong pool performances led to a more favourable knockout path. "Glasgow have put themselves in pole position in their pool," he added, emphasising the strategic advantage of their perfect start.
Confidence High for French Test and Saracens Clash
The Warriors travel to the Stade Marcel-Michelin brimming with confidence, having backed up their European heroics with three consecutive United Rugby Championship wins. This streak includes a decisive double over arch-rivals Edinburgh, propelling them to second in the domestic table.
Barclay believes this winning momentum and the team's clear identity will be vital assets. "Glasgow are such a good team to watch," he said. "They are so confident, so comfortable in what they are trying to achieve. I don't think they are a team that will be fazed at all about going to Clermont; they will probably relish it." This resilience, built in part from their Toulouse triumph, is seen as essential for a deep Champions Cup run.
Form Players Forcing Scotland Selection Headaches
Beyond the club campaign, Barclay highlighted how individual form is creating compelling dilemmas for Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend ahead of the upcoming Six Nations. He singled out the performances of wingers Jamie Dobie and Kyle Steyn as particularly exceptional.
"I love watching Jamie play. It typifies what Glasgow is about," Barclay remarked, praising the 24-year-old's all-action displays both on the wing and at scrum-half. "Kyle Steyn on the other wing too – they are the two best wingers in Scotland right now on form."
This presents a direct challenge to the established international duo of Darcy Graham and Duhan van der Merwe. "Obviously Darcy and Duhan have a bit more credit in the bank," Barclay conceded, "but on pure form alone, those two are right up there." He suggested Dobie has shown the aerial ability and physicality to succeed at the highest international level.
The Warriors' European campaign continues live on Premier Sports, which is broadcasting every match of the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup this season.
