THE LIONS' very own Phileas Fogg, Michael Owen, has flown around the world and back again in just five days and he has landed straight back in the squad to face Otago tomorrow.

The Newport Gwent Dragon captain has been promoted to the bench after England's Lewis Moody failed a fitness test and was be replaced by Ireland and Llanelli's Simon Easterby.

Owen, who flew back to Wales to witness the birth of his daughter five days ago, was was in the Lions team that defeated Wellington just SIX days ago and is now incredibly back among the replacements.

"Michael doesn't seem to be showing any affects from his long trip - you wouldn't know he's been to the UK and back in just a few days," said assistant Lions coach Ian McGeechan.

"A key part of any jet lag recovery programme is adjusting to the time difference between UK and New Zealand. During his trip home he maintained New Zealand time, which has ensured that his sleep patterns have had the minimum disruption.

"Lewis is on track and could have played, but you need to do what is right for the player, and in this case it is giving him just a bit more time.

"As coaches, we need to take on board the advice of the medics and he is entirely on course to be available for the Southland game."

Ospreys' Newport-born Ryan Jones gets his first start as a Lion at Dunedin's House of Pain tomorrow, following his late call-up as injury cover.

"I never thought I'd get this chance so that just makes me more determined to grab it," he said. "I only got here six days ago and I've only been really involved in training since Monday. However, if I thought I was coming out to make up the numbers, there would have been no point getting on the plane.

"I should have been lying on a beach in the Maldives but instead I'm playing at the House of Pain. I know which one I'd prefer to do.

"It's not easy joining a squad that has been together for such a long time but I've not found it a problem. There are plenty of familiar faces from the Wales squad and the spirit is great.

"Otago is a big challenge. We've got some momentum back and with the Test so close, it's vital we maintain it tomorrow."