DAN Biggar is being backed to become Wales’ best outside-half in a generation by his Ospreys teammate, Newport-born Ryan Jones.

Biggar was the region’s hero on Sunday when his touchline conversion of Shane Williams’ last-gasp try gave them a dramatic 31-30 win over Leinster to clinch the PRO12 league title in Dublin during an epic encoun-ter.

The 22-year-old No 10 has been in great form in recent months after a difficult couple of years.

Biggar’s reward for his hard work and upturn in fortunes is a place in Wales’ squad for Saturday’s clash with the Barbarians when he could win his tenth cap.

Back rower and lock Jones, 31, could break the Wales captaincy record he shares with Ieuan Evans on the weekend if he skippers the side for the 29th time.

But the Bassaleg School product was more interested in praising Biggar for his match-winning kick and hailed his temperament after some difficult times at the Liberty Stadium where many of the fans had turned on the young stand off.

“I think Dan had his eyes closed and was almost crying before that conversion,” Wales’ 2008 Grand Slam captain Jones joked.

“No, Dan’s a wonderful talent. He’s had a tough time over recent months and it was a testament to his character, he’s a guy who works incredibly hard. Sometimes, the way he conveys himself, and the way he is portrayed by others, doesn’t do himself any favours.

“But he’s generally a kid who means well and he’s a huge competitor and he’s incredibly talented.”

“I still think, for such a young kid, people forget that he’s got a wealth of experience and moments like the weekend will drive him on to become, I still think, one of Wales’ best tens, if not Wales’ best for a generation. He’s a wonderful talent and he’s destined for big things.”

Jones revealed how he and his Ospreys teammates have nicknamed Biggar after the controversial but talented Manchester City and Italy striker Mario Balotelli.

“We call him Biggsatelli -– he wears his heart on his sleeve and it can be as much of a weakness as a strength but that’s what makes Biggs, Biggs.

“Some people love him, some people hate him but he’s a great kid and he certainly means well.

“That conversion was testament to the hours we see him on the pitch practising and all the stuff that goes on that people don’t see.

“He shouldn’t be remembered for that one kick – he has been massively influential for the Ospreys this entire year. With his kicking performances he has been the ultimate pro.

“But I think he has started to develop a more rounded game which could see him have the potential to go on, if he keeps believing, to bigger and better things.

“I desperately hope he stays in Wales and everyone keeps that belief in him.”