Isaacs set for 50th Ospreys appearance

Isaacs, who celebrates his 26th birthday next week, signed for the Ospreys in the summer of 2009 but after injury problems meant he had to wait until October 2010 to make his debut, his first start came more than four months later in February 2011. He brings up the half century having become a more regular fixture in the team over the last two years, featuring as either centre or wing.

Speaking ahead of his landmark appearance, Isaacs said:

"I'm chuffed to reach 50 games for the Ospreys this weekend. It was a slow start for me after I first arrived at the region but I've been able to get more and more game time over the last two years and I'm really pleased to get to 50.

"We had a fantastic team performance out in Ireland last week. The boys really dug in deep and the defence was outstanding from everyone. If we can go and do that again in Connacht on Friday it will make what will be a special night for me personally even better for everyone at the Ospreys."

Ospreys Head Coach, Steve Tandy, paid tribute to Isaacs, saying:

"I know it's been a bit frustrating for him at times since he joined us, but in fairness to him he's shown a great attitude and a fantastic work ethic which has been rewarded in increased game time.

"Be it on the wing or in the centre he's becoming more and more consistent, which is something we've been working hard on, and in fairness to him, every time he's come into the team he's done a really good job.

"He's a line breaker for us, he's got amazing feet and is very sharp. He's becoming more vocal and defensively he's making his tackles. He's maturing into a more influential figure and I'm delighted to see him reaching the landmark 50th cap for us."