Shingler: I’ll take my time after Sam shock

AARON Shingler is prepared to delay his Wales comeback rather than risk following Sam Warburton into premature retirement.

After smashing a knee during the Scarlets’ PRO14 final against Leinster, Shingler is not due back until January at the earliest or March at the latest, too late for the Six Nations.

“The problem is if I push it too hard too soon and it goes again, that could be my career over,’’ he said.

“I’m hoping to be ready to go in early January but if it needs more time, I’ll have to take it on the chin.

“I had my ACL repaired which is quite a big op. They told me it would take six to nine months and I’m seeing the surgeon next month.

“I haven’t lost hope yet of being fit for the Six Nations. I think I’d have to play in the Six Nations to get into the squad for the

World Cup. You never know, someone else might come in, play very well and make it more difficult.’’

Almost two months after the operation, Shingler has taken the first steps on the long road to a full recovery. “It’s like learning to walk again,’’ he says. “After seven weeks on crutches, not putting any weight on my foot, I’m back to square one.

“I’ve lost a lot of muscle in the leg. I’ve started to walk and it’s tough. I can’t do more than 500 metres without the leg needing a rest but it’ll get easier.’’

Shingler, at 30 a year older than Warburton, made the No. 6 jersey his own for most of last season. His predecessor on the blindside, Dan Lydiate, is on schedule to start his come-back in September.

Josh Navidi, Welsh rugby’s player of the year, will be expected to continue in the autumn where he left off in the Six Nations as Warburton’s successor. The formidable list of openside contenders emphasises the wealth of Welsh talent in the position.

Ellis Jenkins, out of the same Cardiff Blues stable as Warburton and Navidi, captained Wales against South Africa last month. The Scarlets’ James Davies got the nod for both Tests in Argentina, a series which Jenkins finished as the starting blindside.

Shingler on top form would be part of Wales’ optimum back row alongside Navidi and prodigious No.8 Taulupe Faletau.