Andy Farrell heaped praise on Wales flanker Jac Morgan and joked he can play “wherever he wants” in the British and Irish Lions back row after a man-of-the-match display in the win over Queensland Reds.
Morgan strengthened his claim for a Test start as he produced a stellar display for the tourists in their 52-12 victory in Brisbane on Wednesday.
The 25-year-old impressed in a familiar role at seven, but Lions head coach Farrell suggested the versatile forward could also be deployed at six or even number eight.
“He was everywhere. His offloading game was great, he was aggressive with his hitting,” said Farrell.
“He’ll be delighted. The competition has started and there are reactions all over the place to come.
“If he plays like he did today, he can play wherever he wants.”
Farrell was waxing lyrical for good reason.
Morgan powered over for a try and carried for 44 metres – the most of any forward on the field.
He was equally effective in defence, making three turnovers and joining captain Maro Itoje and number eight Jack Conan with a game-high 18 tackles.
Morgan is in fierce competition with England stalwart Tom Curry, Ireland’s former World Rugby player of the year Josh van der Flier and high-octane youngster Henry Pollock as the recognised open-side flankers.
Ireland captain Caelan Doris’ absence from the tour, though, means there is not yet a standout candidate for the number eight role, with Conan and Englishman Ben Earl the leading contenders.
Ospreys’ Morgan, the only remaining Wales player in the squad following Tomos Williams’ tour-ending injury, has no problem playing in an alternative position.
“I want to try and be as versatile as possible,” Morgan told BBC Sport.
“A lot of boys are trying to play in different positions so it’s just making sure we learn all of our roles within the back row because you never know, with the games coming thick and fast, you could end up playing in any position.”