Norton-Knight left Australia because he could not claim the 10 jersey

Summer recruit Sam Norton-Knight says he is ready to step forward and claim the fly-half jersey at Cardiff Blues.

The twice-capped Australia utility back, 25, has played much of his recent rugby with the Waratahs at full-back.

But he will be charged with taking over the 10 jersey at the Blues, Nicky Robinson having left for Gloucester.

"Like anything, it takes a little bit of time, but my skills as a footballer probably suit the 10 position more than the 15 position," said Norton-Knight.

"I left Sydney out of frustration that I wasn't given a lot of opportunities there. So I do want to play 10 for the Blues.

"When Peter Hewat came over to join London Irish in 2007, it left a bit of a hole in the squad at full-back and I guess reluctantly it was passed on to me to take over his shoes, but I think I've always been a 10.

"I have always tried to bring good distribution and a good kicking game to my play.

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"Your bread and butter has to be good to play any position and at 10 your bread and butter is your catch-pass and your kicking game.

"They are the two areas I really pride myself on and see as my strengths.

"My attitude is whatever position you are playing in you take the skills you have and try and bring them to that position."

The Australian accepts that he will have to fight for his favoured 10 position in Cardiff.

"I recognise there's a couple of good 10s in the squad with Ceri Sweeney and Dai Flanagan," he said.

"Both have got some great skills, so there is going to be plenty of competition for that jersey which you hope brings out the best in everyone.

"But hopefully over time I can secure a spot in the side."

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