Liam Williams is set to miss Wales’ next two Guinness Six Nations matches against Ireland and France.
But the fullback could return in time to face England on March 7 at Twickenham, according to defence coach Byron Hayward.
The Saracens back has yet to feature for club or country this season since he returned from the World Cup after undergoing ankle surgery while in Japan.
“He’s struggling a bit… it’s probably a bit too early for Liam,” Hayward said.
“We’re looking at the fourth and fifth game for when he’ll be available. It’s certainly not as soon as we’d hoped. But look at all the positives – the boys all worked well last weekend.
“Leigh [Halfpenny] had a great game at full-back, though it would be nice to get Liam back.”
Williams, who has made 70 appearances for Wales, watched on as Wayne Pivac’s side opened their Guinness Six Nations account with a convincing 42-0 win against Italy in Cardiff.
However, Hayward did provide some good news on the injury front with scrum-half Gareth Davies, centre Owen Watkin and hooker Elliot Dee all available for selection for the trip to Dublin on Saturday.
With Watkin available and Nick Tompkins impressing off the bench on his debut, Hayward admitted they are faced with a number of selection headaches in the midfield.
“It’s nice to see them back into full training after spending time with the medical team in the last couple of weeks and just taking part in walk-throughs etc, but actually being back on the training field and fit and ready to go,” he added.
“Nick made an impact and certainly put his hand up for selection. He took to the international stage like he’d been there for many years.
“We know what Owen can do and what he brings. It will be an interesting debate.”
