Adam Thomson heads into the first week of training for the All Blacks Test series against Ireland hoping he can make the number six jersey his for the year.

Thomson has been in the All Blacks squad for some time but has often found himself on the bench as a backup to the strong trio of Kieran Read, Richie McCaw and Jerome Kaino.

An injury to Kaino, followed quickly by his departure to Japan, means Thomson has a chance to establish himself as a first-choice blindside flanker.

However, he says for now he’s happy to be in the squad of 30.

“I’ve been on the other side of it before. You never take being named for granted so I’m excited to be back,” he said.

“It’s sort of one step at a time, there’s plenty of good loose forwards here. I’ve just got to carry on doing what I did at the start of Super Rugby and try and take my form over to Test rugby.”

Thomson has been one of the Highlanders’ best as they have challenged for a Super Rugby playoff spot, his running and ball skills complemented by more precision at the breakdown.

He’s also been one of the Highlanders’ main lineout forwards and would add extra strength to the All Blacks in that phase if selected.

“I’ve always seen myself having the lineout as one of my strengths and if Reado (Kieran Read) is playing as well we’ve got quite a formidable lineout,” he said.

Ireland come to New Zealand having never beaten the All Blacks in their 106 year, 24 Test history and Thomson says the All Blacks are determined to keep it that way.

“They’ll see it as their time to come out here and make a statement so we’re looking forward to it.”

“They’ve got a quality side and a good forward pack who love those bruising encounters and good loose forwards so it’ll be a challenge for us.”

The three-Test series begins in Auckland on Saturday.