James Hook considers his Wales future but vows to play on

James Hook is tackled by Victor Matfield during Wales' 38-16 defeat by South Africa in June 2014

James Hook admits he has considered his future with Wales but has vowed not to "turn his back" on his country.

The Gloucester fly-half was left out of Wales' 2014 autumn squad, but recalled after Dan Biggar's groin injury.

Hook, 29, has been a peripheral figure for Wales in recent years and has contemplated his international future, but wants to fight for his place.

"I would be lying if I said it didn't cross my mind, but I don't think you can [retire]," said Hook.

"As a young boy, you want to grow up and play for Wales. You would never turn your back on it, no matter how tough it gets sometimes. You would be stupid to, really."

James Hook kicks a last-minute penalty to give Gloucester a 24-23 win over Saracens

Hook's versatility has sometimes been highlighted as a reason for his recent spells on the international margins.

The former Osprey has played fly-half, full-back and centre for Wales and was an uncapped British and Irish Lion in South Africa in 2009.

Pundit Jonathan Davies reacted to Hook's initial omission from Wales' 2014 autumn squad by saying the player's utility tag had "destroyed" his career.

He has, however, impressed at fly-half for Gloucester this season and his long-range penalty with the last kick of the game gave his side a 24-23 English Premiership win over Saracens in January.

Hook has spoken to Wales' coaches about ways he can adapt his game to add to his 77 caps.

"I spoke to Rob [Howley, Wales backs coach] in depth for the first time in a while in the autumn," said Hook.

"They want the 10 to straighten up and fix defenders and, me, I'm the type of player who likes to run across and look for gaps and put people in space that way.

"It's quite a difficult habit to get out of, but I'm working my socks off to try and improve that, to try and put myself back in the frame."