Flanagan faces perhaps the biggest game of his career

"He's grown in confidence every time he's played and was outstanding in the EDF Energy Cup win at Bath," said Rush.

"We hope he'll take another step up. We will certainly get round and help him."

Injuries to fly-halves Nicky Robinson (hip) and Nick Macleod (hand) have given Pontypridd-product Flanagan, 22, his chance on the big stage.

606: DEBATE Can Flanagan do the business for the Blues?

The burden of responsibility is on his shoulders as the only fit number 10 in the regional side's European squad, Blues coach Dai Young naming just two backs on the bench for the second week running.

That cost the Welsh side in last week's narrow 12-6 loss to Stade Francais in Paris, Robinson's first-half injury forcing scrum-half Jason Spice to move to 10.

In contrast, Stade were able to bring on French international fly-half David Skrela when their 10, Juan Martin Hernandez, was injured.

I've been getting criticism for having strength in depth when other sides are praised for it Blues coach Dai Young

Young finds the situation ironic, given criticism he has received for his policy of rotating Robin Sowden Taylor and Martyn Williams at open-side plus Tom Shanklin and Jamie Robinson at centre.

"It seems I've been getting criticism for having strength in depth when other sides are praised for it," Young told BBC Sport Wales.

"But I'm pleased with the way the squad is developing, we want two quality players in every position.

"We're not there yet, and we will miss [Nicky] Robinson because he's a key player.

"But we have the likes of Flanagan coming through. He's on a steep learning curve and I'm confident that he will stand up and have another big game.