Welsh international back Ioan Lloyd could return to action for Bristol Bears next weekend against Leicester Tigers in a timely boost for Pat Lam’s side.
Bristol received a huge morale boost on Friday night with a 29-28 victory over play-off chasing Gloucester Rugby, but the victory was slightly dampened by injuries to former Wallabies international Luke Morahan who injured his leg and centre Antoine Frisch who took a knock to his shoulder.
Selection options in the centres is limited further by the impending suspension for Sam Bedlow who was red-carded for a high tackle on Friday night after replacing the injured Frisch.
Bristol are missing first choice players in both positions with former All Black full back Charlies Piutau suffering a groin pull in training last week while Fijian international captain Semi Radradra has surgery on his left knee this week.
The good news ahead of the trip to Welford Road is the Bears director of rugby has confirmed the versatile Lloyd, who has played both 15 and 12 this season, is in contention to return from a broken cheekbone for either the Round 24 clash, or Exeter Chiefs at home. With his services now required, this coming weekend looks more likely.
“Ioan is not far away," Lam said.
“He broke his cheekbone at the end of the Bath game when he took a bit knee to the face.
“He is not far away.
“We are hoping if not next week then the week after. There is a big break for Europe so he will definitely be ready for the Exeter game (on May 20), possibly for next week.
Meanwhile, Radradra took to social media on Saturday to share an image from his hospital bed post-op.
He wrote: “On the road to recovery! I'll be back better and stronger for a big season with the Bears. #Trusttheprocess.”
