Byrne joined Clermont Auvergne from the Ospreys in the summer and has already become a crowd favourite at the Stade Marcel Michelin.
And having won over the French public in double quick time by helping Clermont to a Heineken Cup quarter-final and to second in the Top 14 table, the 31-year-old full back is hoping to reclaim his international place for Sunday’s clash with Ireland.
“I would have liked to have played more games in the World Cup, but I went to Clermont and it was a new lease of life for me,” said Byrne.
“In rugby terms, it’s the best move I’ve ever made and I’m really enjoying it out there.
“Playing every week in such a great environment with the internationals they’ve got there is amazing really.
“It’s another level, a step up again playing with those players.
“We are in contention for two competitions, lying second in the French league and into the quarter-finals of the Heineken Cup. When the team is doing so well, it does rub off on you.
“The winning mentality they’ve got out there and playing high intensity games has certainly paid off for me.”
Byrne insists the real key to his fine form is the fact that he has been free from injury since heading to France.
The former Bridgend Athletic, Tondu and Scarlets star was one of Wales’ stand-out performers prior to the 2009 Lions tour of South Africa as he established himself as the pre-eminent full back in the northern hemisphere.
But a series of setbacks has hampered his progress since then and last season saw him start just 10 games in all competitions for the Ospreys.
Byrne has played 12 straight matches for Clermont already this term, though, and he admits getting regular game time has allowed him to find his rhythm and get back to his best despite having to adapt to a new environment.
“The key for me is I’ve had no injuries or niggles,” added Byrne.
“My fitness is good and I’ve had a good run of games, so all is going well. It’s the first time I’ve had a run of games like this one since 2008.
“I’m playing week-in, week-out and getting confidence. All in all, I am pleased with my form.”
