Williams set for Heineken opener
Tue, 16 Sep 2008 13:58
Cardiff Blues and Wales flank Martyn Williams' injury concerns have been given some respite, with the 33-year-old set to be fit for his side's opening Heineken Cup clash next month against Calvisano.
The veteran flank limped off during the Blues' 16-15 Magners League win over Ulster at the Arms Park last Friday.
However, according to the Blues' official website, scan results on Williams' ankle have confirmed that the injury is not as serious as first thought.
"Martyn has torn a ligament on the inside of his left ankle but no operation is needed to repair the injury," the Blues site stated.
"Martyn will have rehabilitation on the ankle and aims to be back fit for the first round of Heineken Cup matches on October 11."
The new prognosis will certainly ease Wales coach Warren Gatland's initial concerns, who had persuaded Williams to come out of international retirement last January ahead of the Six Nations championship.
Wales' national squad will reconvene in November for Tests against South Africa, Canada, New Zealand and Australia, and Gatland will not want to be without his inspirational openside flank.
The Blues will also be without the services of try-scorer Leigh Halfpenny, who was carried off in the Ulster clash after taking a knock.
