The England and Exeter Chiefs back-row tasted European success as an individual and with his club last season, lifting the Heineken Champions Cup after a dramatic 31-27 final win over Racing 92 and collecting EPCR European Player of the Year after a string of impressive displays.

But it was an away victory over Montpellier in October 2017 that Simmonds has favourable memories of, having pulled off a shock victory at the GGL Stadium.

“I think that one of my favourite games was a couple of years ago, when we played Montpellier [Hérault Rugby],” Simmonds said.

“I was on the bench in the game away, where we turned them over and we had a great game away, but the one where we played them at home – and I think it might have been a Friday or a Saturday night - it was dark and the crowd just played such a massive part.

“It felt like a semi-final or a final. We just dominated that game, and to be involved in such a big win at the time.

“I think Montpellier were top of the Top 14, big French giants coming here, and we hadn’t really performed in Europe or backed-up performances – and to put out a statement like that during that year was great, and [it was] one I thoroughly enjoyed playing in.”

The 26-year-old also picked out several Exeter stars of the future, including fellow back-rows Charlie Wright and Rusiate Tuima.

"In the back row, Charlie Wright and Rus[iate] Tuima. [They are] very good, very different players. Rus is absolutely huge, almost like in the Billy Vunipola-shaped mould,” Simmonds added.

“I think he’s just turned 20 or 21, and if he can get some game time under his belt, he’s going to be a force to be reckoned with.

“And then, Charlie [Wright] is more my shape, my build: quick, good over the ball, likes getting involved and stuff like that. So, I think they’re two to look forward to.”

EPCR European Player of the Year Sam Simmonds has spoken to ChampionsCupRugby.com about his favourite Heineken Champions Cup experiences, as well as some of his Exeter Chiefs teammates that look set to shine in Europe’s elite club competition over the coming seasons.