Wales boss Warren Gatland’s preparations for the autumn internationals look set to be given a welcome boost this weekend with the return to action of utility back James Hook.
The Ospreys star has been on the sidelines for four months having undergone shoulder surgery in June – missing the two test series in New Zealand in the summer.
The 25-year-old last lined up for his country in the home clash with world champions South Africa in June but Ospreys coach Sean Holley revealed he is all set to return against Scarlets.
“James Hook has recovered and is likely to be available for selection this week,” said Holley.
“He is looking strong and fit and causing our defensive sessions real problems on the attacking team
“That is a good sign, but he has had no pitch-time since South Africa in the summer.
“Our current centre pairing of Andrew Bishop and Tommy Bowe are also playing particularly well.
“We will have to wait and see and we have a process of integrating players back, like we did with Ryan Jones and Mike Phillips on the weekend.
“We are not taking a short-term view on this, particularly with Hooky, but the likelihood is that he will be on the bench.”
