FLY-HALF Stephen Jones believes he is thriving at London Wasps thanks to his battle with compatriot Nicky Robinson for the starting spot.

The 34-year-old - whose new side face Newport Gwent Dragons in the Amlin Challenge Cup on Saturday - headed over to England when his contract with the Scarlets expired at the end of the season.

But Jones, Wales’ most capped player with 104 international appearances, insists he isn’t just topping up his retirement fund in the Aviva Premiership.

“What keeps me going is the desire to improve and that s why I spend time after matches thinking I should have done this or that,” he said.

“My aim is to pass on some tips to the youngsters while battling for the number 10 jersey with Nicky and it’s important to have competition for places. All the best squads have this.

“If I ever lose the love of playing I will stop. Coming to Wasps has been a breath of fresh air and I am loving the new challenge.”

Jones was brought in by director of rugby Dai Young, the ex-Wales front row forward and former Cardiff Blues supremo, to act as a mentor for a talented bunch of youngsters.

With the likes of centre Elliot Daly, wing Christian Wade, number eight Billy Vunipola and lock Joe Launchbury in their ranks the fly-half believes the future is bright in Wycombe.

“I have a huge amount of respect for Dai having played alongside him for Wales and it is exciting to now be able to work with him here,” he said.

“It is a rebuilding process here after last season was badly affected by injuries.

“I see Wasps in a similar position to the Scarlets three years ago with so many great young players coming through the system into the first team.”