NEWPORT lock Ian Gough is set to step straight into the Black and Ambers side for their vital Heineken Cup clash against Zurich Premiership side London Irish at Rodney Parade on Saturday.

And Australian-born centre Jason Jones-Hughes is also likely to be involved in the game - both after just two comeback run-outs in friendlies following operations.

Gough, out for almost seven months but now recovered after a back operation, seems certain to start after fellow second row Mike Voyle himself suffered a back muscle injury training on the weights yesterday.

"It is something he has suffered before and he's not too happy as it normally takes a week to come right," said disappointed Newport coach Leigh Jones.

"It is a major blow but at least Ian has had two 80-minute games (against Swansea and Cambridge University) and has looked sharp.

"It would be nice to have three international second rows available (skipper Simon Raiwalui the other) and to be able to change things for the last 20 minutes if necessary, so we'll leave it until Wednesday before making a final decision."

But it looks likely former Cross Keys and Blackwood second row Matthew Veater will be on the bench.

"He's starting to come through and I'm pleased about that," said Jones, "but it's a big step up for him to play in the Heineken Cup."

Jones-Hughes has played just a game and a half since his return after 20 months out following a serious knee injury which required reconstructive surgery.

But he too has looked much sharper than could reasonably have been expected and scored a try in the 41-17 win over Cambridge.

"It has taken him a long time to get back but he has looked quite strong and he will be involved in some way on Saturday," said Jones. "But everyone has to be patient with him."

Newport have a few other worries ahead of team selection.

Shane Howarth missed training yesterday with a dead leg and also has 'flu along with flanker Gareth Gravell, while prop Ceri Jones has a calf strain. "They should be all right for the game," added Jones.