Winger Jones a doubt

He damaged ribs scoring a match-winning try for Llanelli Scarlets in their dramatic Powergen semi-final victory over Bath and is struggling to be fit for Wales.

"He came off with bruised ribs and is feeling particularly sore," said Wales physiotherapist Mark Davies at the Welsh team headquarters this morning.

"He will not take an active part in training for the next couple of days and there are doubts over his fitness, he's probably only 50/50."

But there is a much better chance of key outside half Stephen Jones making it after being forced off with a knee injury during the early stages of the game against Ireland.

"Stephen is progressing well and though he will not take any part in the team training today, he will resume tomorrow when we will know with more clarity about the weekend," said Davies.

"He hasn't done any running yet, but we will give him every chance. The injury is not as acute as Mark's and he is probably better than 50/50."

Alix Popham, the Scarlets and former Newport number eight who considerably enhanced his chances with a dynamic performance in the Powergen semi-final, suffered a slight shoulder strain near the end.

But that is not expected to affect his chances of forcing his way into the side. "It was only a minor injury, he came off as a precaution and it should only hamper him for a couple of days," said Davies.

He also revealed that Newport Gwent Dragons player Ceri Sweeney is progressing well after more groin trouble and should resume training this week, though he is unlikely to come into the running for the Italy game.

Meanwhile, winger Shane Williams, sure to be back in the Welsh team after recovering from a dead leg, has urged Scott Johnson to stay as Wales' coach, though he has been interviewed for the assistant's job with Australia and is due to give a decision in a week.

"He has been at the heart of Wales' success and we don't want to see him go," said Williams.