PLACES are still up for grabs in Wales' World Cup squad which is being announced on Monday.
Though Wales play their final warm-up game against Scotland at the Millennium Stadium today (2.30pm) coach Steve Hansen insists it is still all to play for for some.
He admits that most of his squad has been finalised, but says three or four places have still not been decided.
"Most of the side is picked, but there are three or four spots we are really looking at and there are a number of players who can fill them," said Hansen.
But he appears to rule out Shane Williams and Gavin Henson, two young successes against Romania on Wednesday, which will dismay many who believe their flair should be utilised.
"We have been keeping our eyes on them over the last 12 months, but we can't pick them on one game," said Hansen.
"They have commenced their journey in terms of playing for Wales and a lot will feature in the years to come. Even though they have played well some may miss out on going to the World Cup."
Gwent have got half a dozen players in the running for places. Leading candidates are:
ANDY MARINOS -- Newport & Gwent Dragons captain, a robust hard runner. On the brink of going.
NATHAN BREW -- Centre or wing who has staked a claim this month. Early in his career, but could make it.
MATTHEW WATKINS -- Former Newport threequarter who cemented a place in his favourite centre position for Llanelli, though Hansen is now picking him on the wing. May just miss out.
IAN GOUGH -- Lost his place through injury, now back in the fold. Looks like being unlucky.
MICHAEL OWEN -- Moved from number eight to lock by Hansen who sees him a rangy ball winning ball carrier. Sure to make it.
CHRIS WYATT -- Llanelli lock from Newport, brought back for one final chance against England. A bit tight.
RHYS OAKLEY -- New signing for the Dragons, made a promising debut against Ireland. May be a bit too soon.
ALIX POPHAM -- ex-Newport back row forward now with Leeds. Featured heavily for Wales this month. Could clinch a last minute place.
RICHARD PARKS -- Former Newport flanker before joining Pontypridd who is staking a late claim. Touch and go.
Hansen's difficult task on Monday will be to tell those who have missed out, but he will be up front about it.
"I've got to tell the poor people who have missed out which is the hardest job a coach has to do," he said.
"You've got to be honest and up front. I'll be telling them face to face, it won't be a phone call."
It's going to be a pretty tense weekend as Hansen also looks to break his duck with victory over a leading country for the first time in 23 attempts.
TODAY'S FIXTURES (3pm unless stated) Argentina v Canada, France v England (8pm), Ireland v Italy (1pm), Uruguay v USA, Wales v Scotland (2.30pm)
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