Sunderland Echo

Wales will be at full strength for quarter-final with France

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Wales are on course to have a fully-fit squad - including Jonathan Davies and Dan Biggar for next Sunday's World Cup quarter-final against France.

Centre Davies has been recovering from a knee injury, while fly-half Dan Biggar followed head injury assessment return-to-play protocols after going off during the victory over Fiji four days ago.

Neither player was considered for Wales' fourth successive Pool D win - a 35-13 verdict against Uruguay in Kumamoto - but they are recovering well, along with George North, who has had an ankle knock.

"Jonathan Davies had a scan and it came back clear, which is really positive for us," Wales head coach Warren Gatland said. "Initially, we were a bit worried.

"Dan is going through his protocols, and he had a scan as well. We've spoken to consultant­s from World Rugby about him, and he's spoken to the consultant as well.

"They are pleased with the progress he's making, so hopefully he will be fine. George had a slight ankle injury, but he is going to be OK.

"We are in a good place and building some momentum nicely. Talking to the medics, they are hopeful that in a couple of days we will be able to get everyone fit and available for selection - the whole 31 (squad) training.

"That will be the first time we've had that out here, whichisrea­llygood,andnow it's about creating momentum."

A Wales team showing 13 changes from the side that accounted for Fiji posted a bonus point win to guarantee their best World Cup pool stage performanc­e four successive victories since 1987.

NickySmith,JoshAdams, Tomos Williams and Gareth Davies scored tries, while there was also a penalty try and Leigh Halfpenny kicked four conversion­s.

But all attention is now on France in Oita next Sunday, with Gatland revealing some powerful words from captain Alun Wyn Jones to the players, post-Uruguay.

Gatland added: "Alun Wyn probably said it best there are 240 minutes left to do something special. For us, that's something to really focus on.

"We've got a good record against France, but they are traditiona­lly a tournament team. We know how hard next week is going to be.”

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