WALES hope James Hook can be the centre of attention at Twickenham on Saturday and end any debate about his best position in Test match rugby.

Hook has struggled to shake off the ’Mr Versatile’ tag during a 37-cap international career which began in 2006.

But Wales believe it could be a case of lucky 13 for the gifted 24-year-old, whose midfield partnership with his fellow Lion Jamie Roberts promises considerable riches.

Had Ospreys star Lee Byrne not seen a two-week ban quashed following his brief appearance as an illegal 16th player during the recent Heineken Cup victory over Leicester, then any midfield move for Hook would have been temporarily scrapped.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland delayed his team announcement from last Sunday until yesterday in the hope Byrne would become available, and his presence means Hook can now start in a fourth different position for Wales – but potentially his most potent.

“James has the skill-set to play in a variety of positions,” said Wales attack coach Rob Howley.

“You sometimes feel like you just have to find a role for him, but we think we may have found his position.

“We tried Jamie at outside centre in the autumn mainly due to injury problems elsewhere in the squad, but he is back in his preferred position (12) and we are excited about seeing James in this new international role as well.”

Hook is among 10 Lions from last summer’s South Africa tour in Gatland’s line-up as Wales seek a fourth successive RBS 6 Nations victory over England.