Gavin Henson has revealed he is troubled by a groin injury just two weeks before the start of the RBS Six Nations championship. The Ospreys star should start at centre for Wales against England, but was limping after Friday's win in Ulster.
"I've been struggling with injury for the last couple of weeks, so I haven't been able to run properly," he said.
"But my kicks went over against Ulster and we can leave the other boys to carry on the Celtic League campaign."
Wales coach Mike Ruddock has already gained agreement from the four Welsh regional teams not to play their Wales players next weekend.
That should hopefully give Henson the rest he needs to get his body right before England arrive at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium on 5 February.
"We are aware that he (Henson) has had a bit of a groin strain, so we'll monitor his progress this week and alter his training accordingly," Ruddock said.
"Hopefully with some treatment now he'll be fine for the England game."
Ruddock confirmed that he expects all his squad to report for Wales training on Sunday, but conceded that he would probably have to watch those with French and English clubs depart for matches next weekend.
Captain Gareth Thomas (Toulouse), Stephen Jones (Clermont Auvergne), Gareth Llewellyn (Narbonne) and Colin Charvis (Newcastle) are all likely to have to play on Saturday the 29th.
The Wales management are still waiting for confirmation from Gloucester as to whether they require hooker Mefin Davies.
"The IRB regulations are quite clear that once we give prior notice for training days prior to international matches, then those players must attend," Ruddock said.
"Obviously we are aware that we must release those players for games the week before the Test if their teams want them - it's a fair ruling."
MMIX
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