Wales prop Gethin Jenkins is a doubt to face Scotland at Murrayfield next week.
The Toulon prop injured his calf in last Saturday’s 26-9 victory over Italy and the 97 time-capped loose-head returned to his French club, who say they expect him to be out for 10 days.
“We will find out a bit more when he arrives here and the physios can cast an eye over him,” said Wales assistant coach Robin McBryde. “It is going to be a close call. We will have to see how he responds to the treatment.”
Bath prop Paul James would replace Jenkins (above), with interim head coach Rob Howley set to announce the starting line-up next Tuesday.
Howley is also likely to look at the second row, where a fit-again Alun‑Wyn Jones could dislodge Andrew Coombs, while Sam Warburton will challenge strongly for a back-row recall.
“There will be a couple of selection issues,” said McBryde. “As much as we benefited from keeping the same team [after France] for Italy, there were certain areas we are always looking to improve upon.
“We’ve got strength in depth to choose from, so I dare say there will be a few discussion points.”
Scotland followed up their win over Italy by beating Ireland 12-8 and McBryde added: “I am sure that victory has galvanised the Scots even more. It will be a challenge for us.”
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