And with the return of the Wales internationals to the Liberty Stadium, Holley and Head Coach Lyn Jones have an added pool of talent from which to choose. Holley has seen an added intensity on the training ground this week as players battle for a place in the starting XV, but that will not change his selection procedure.

''Selection will be based on horses for courses and form, as it is for every position." said Holley. ''Training has been great so far. It's been competitive, but there's plenty of mutual respect and I'm sure people will support each other as the campaign unfolds,''added Holley.

With Michael Phillips driven on by an urge to prove himself the best No.9 in Wales and Justin Marshall a proven performer at the highest level, the Ospreys have two outstanding scrum halves as who can turn a match at any stage. And Holley knows he is in a luxurious position with two world class scrum halves at his disposal.

''At this stage the pair of them will be in the squad for the Munster game,'' he said. ''They are at the opposite ends of the career spectrum. Mike has the chance to learn from a player who has been one of the best scrum halves in world rugby, while Justin will be kept on his toes by having a younger rival to compete with.''

With just one win, one draw, and three defeats so far in a stuttering early season, the Ospreys' Celtic crown is slipping. It may not have fallen just yet, but unless there is a turn around in results before Christmas, the likelihood of a successful league defence is slim.