George North and Samson Lee should be fit to take on France
Friday 20 February 2015 17:25, UK
Wales are expected to have a full-strength squad to choose from for their Six Nations match with France in Paris next weekend.
Warren Gatland had to do without winger George North and prop Samson Lee in the 26-23 win over Scotland but both are on course to take on the French.
North was rested after taking two heavy blows to his head during the defeat by England and Lee was concussed at Twickenham, making way for Ospreys tight-head Aaron Jarvis in Edinburgh.
Gatland has allowed a number of players to return to regional and club action this weekend, but barring any injuries in those games, he should have all options open when he selects his next squad.
Fingers crossed
North is expected to return in the back-three, and it could be that his fellow British and Irish Lion Alex Cuthbert makes way, given Liam Williams' impressive display against Scotland and consistently outstanding form this season.
"A lot of the players have gone back to the regions to play, which gives them an opportunity for them to show what they can do," Wales assistant coach and forwards specialist Robin McBryde said on Friday.
"There is an element of crossing fingers and hoping we don't get injuries.
"But from their point of view, especially the boys who haven't been involved as much, they want to sharpen their tools, and there is no better place to do that than playing for their regions.
"We are in a fortunate position. We're in the best shape that we ever have been in after the first two (Six Nations) games.
"It's a healthy camp, and hopefully we can reap the benefits of the squad competition during the campaign."
