Injuries could give Hook a late call-up to the Lions squad

Sean Holley says outside-half James Hook can deliver if called on by the injury-hit Lions in South Africa.

"He'd cope really well [if selected]," said Holley, the 23-year-old's assistant coach at the Ospreys and on Wales' summer tour to North America.

"It would be disappointing for Wales, but it's every player's dream to play for the Lions, that's the pinnacle."

Injuries to Leigh Halfpenny and Tom Shanklin have left a hole in the Lions squad that Hook may be in line to fill.

England's Delon Armitage is favourite to take the place when the Lions make the announcement, though, expected to be on Friday.

The 33-cap Ospreys star Hook was a strong favourite to make the initial Lions cut, but a mixed season that got worse towards the end cost him a place.

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Stephen Jones and Ronan O'Gara are the only outside-halves in the Lions touring party, with winger Halfpenny the main back-up as a goal kicker.

A thigh injury now means that Halfpenny will miss the first few weeks of the tour, and Hook's versatility - a quality that has arguably hindered the progress of his career - could now benefit him.

"It's been tough for James, in the last four games of the season he's played in four different positions," said Holley.

"He was a real success at outside-centre [where he is expected to figure on Wales' tour].

Versatility can be a double-edged sword Sean Holley on James Hook

"He is probably still most comfortable at 10, while he has also played 12 and 15 in recent weeks.

"Versatility can be a double-edged sword. I'm sure he'd like to settle in one or two positions, but for us as a coaching team his ability can be such a valuable asset.

"Fair play, he's taken it in his stride and got on with things as usual."

Wales caretaker coach Robin McBryde says that Hook's best position has yet to be determined, and Nicky Robinson and Dan Biggar are expected to contest the 10 jersey in the Tests against Canada and the USA.

"James is excited about the North America tour after a mixed season and he's fitting in really well with the squad," said Holley.

"We haven't heard anything from the Lions, but there are contingencies in place for any eventualities."

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