Mann believes he continues to improve as a player, both physically and mentally, since his breakthrough.

“I feel better as a player now,” he said. “Physically I feel stronger and more comfortable, and I feel like I can have more of an effect on games. It’s just about giving everything to each match and preparing as well as I can.”

Cardiff head coach Corneil van Zyl has been impressed with Mann’s development and praised his coachability and attention to detail.

“Manny’s intent is next level and his detail is next level,” said van Zyl. “He’s probably one of the most coachable players I’ve ever coached.”

After a testing festive period in the United Rugby Championship, Cardiff turn their attention back to Europe as they host Racing in the European Challenge Cup at the Arms Park on Saturday.