Latest update on Liam Williams' injury comeback is a worry

Liam Williams looks set to be unavailable for Wales until the Guinness Six Nations Championship's latter stages.

The Saracens back has not played since suffering an ankle injury ahead of Wales' World Cup semi-final against South Africa last October.

"Liam's struggling a bit at the moment," said Wales defence coach Byron Hayward.

"It (Saturday's game against Ireland) is a little bit early for Liam. We are possibly looking at the fourth or fifth games in the Championship."

After Ireland, Wales host France on February 22 before their March 7 appointment with England at Twickenham. They then tackle Scotland at home seven days later.

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"But look at all the positives - the boys all worked well last weekend (against Italy)," Hayward added.

"Leigh Halfpenny had a great game last weekend at full-back, though it would be nice to get Liam back, obviously."

Centre Owen Watkin, scrum-half Gareth Davies and hooker Elliot Dee are all back in training following recent injuries.

- Press Association 

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