Hill predicts Paris smash for Bristol

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Richard Hill's men do not expect to have it anything like as easy as they did in their previous Pool Three fixture against the French side, who they reduced to a pointless rabble in a 17-0 upset at the Memorial Stadium.

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Let's get physical: Hill (centre) expects an epic battle

Stade have lost only once in 28 ties at the Stade Jean-Bouin in the Continent's blue riband tournament, a 16-14 quarter-final defeat against Munster in 2002.

Not only that, Hill is well aware that the nature of their embarrassing capitulation in the West Country will make Fabien Galthie's team desperate to settle a score.

The head coach said on Thursday: 'With our away record and Stade's home record, you'd put a lot of money on Stade. However, confidence is growing and I don't think they're daunted by the prospect of going to Paris. I think our forwards will have a tough time but they will be up for it. It'll be lively for sure.'

In readiness for a ferocious battle, Hill has recalled prop Jason Hobson and switched veteran Darren Crompton to tighthead. He has also named five forwards on the bench as a clear statement of physical intent.

Realistically, Bristol must aim to stay in touch with their vaunted opponents, who have Argentina full back Ignacio Corleto back from injury, to snatch a losing bonus point.

However, their quarter-final ambitions have been dented by the fact that rivals Cardiff will face a weakened Harlequins side at the Arms Park on Friday.

Wales are poised to adopt a new national selection strategy designed to favour players based at the four regions above those who play outside the Principality.