Thomas' absence compunds Wales' problems at lock

Thomas aggravated the problem against Stade Francais last week, prompting the call-up of Llanelli Scarlets lock Adam Jones to the injury-ravaged Wales rota.

Thomas, 23, has won most of his 22 caps as a flanker, but with Brent Cockbain and Ian Evans unavailable was being considered at second row by Wales.

"It adds to our injury difficulties," Wales coach Mike Ruddock told the BBC.

Any injury to Sid or Gough now would be just a bit of a problem From Cym-roo Join the Scrum V debate

"But we are a pretty determined bunch and there's still a great optimism and excitement to do well against England, we will put these difficulties to one side."

The news leaves Jones, Robert Sidoli and Ian Gough as the only fit second-rows in the Wales squad for the 4 February showdown with England at Twickenham and the 12 February game with Scotland in Cardiff.

Number eight Michael Owen is another option at lock, with Wales having strength-in-depth in the back row to cover such a move.

I am fit to play this weekend Wales captain Gareth Thomas

Cockbain is out for the season with a hamstring injury, while Ian Evans is suspended for the opening two matches of the Six Nations.

Wales have also lost Grand Slam winners Ryan Jones, Tom Shanklin and Kevin Morgan for the season with injury, along with influential tight-head prop Chris Horsman.

Gavin Henson is suspended for the opening two games, while Sale have first call on the services of centre Mark Taylor.

Inspirational captain Gareth Thomas remains a concern with a long-standing knee problem.

But he insisted on Wednesday he had "no worries at all" about being fit to play against England.

"I'm going back to France now and I am fit to play for Toulouse this weekend, if selected," he told BBC Sport.

"I twisted the knee against the Scarlets but it was important for me that I tried to get some game time, even if it was heavily strapped."

Ruddock seems less keen to see his skipper in action this week.

"We asked Toulouse to try to limit Gareth's involvement and they've agreed to put him on the bench," Ruddock told BBC Sport.

"He's contracted to them, though, and we have to respect that they have first call on him."