It was less then a year ago that European rugby's future was under threat as the English and French clubs rocked the Heineken Cup boat.

But this week marks the beginning of the Rugby Champions Cup with Leinster, Munster and Ulster all in action.

Leinster are in action against Wasps on Sunday, with Ulster up against Leicester Tigers the day before and Munster also at Sale Sharks on Saturday.

Keith Wood and Gerry Thornley were in studio tonight on Wednesday Night Rugby to look ahead to the new campaign.

But can the Irish provinces be as competitive as they were when Munster and Leinster were at their peaks in a landscape marked by the potential for "Anglo-French supremacy"?

Gerry explained why he is optimistic of three Irish wins this weekend and Keith is expecting an impressive performance from Munster in a must-win match in Sale.

He also believes that Leinster will also eke out a win against Wasps despite injuries and patchy form.