Webb back in training earlier than expected to lift Ospreys

RHYS Webb is back in training after his surgery-requiring injury and hoping for an earlier-thanexpected return with the Ospreys.

The news will not be unappreciated by Warren Gatland as he finalises his Lions squad and back-up ahead of the official announcement on Thursday, May 6.

Webb left the Brewery Field pitch in pain in the Guinness PRO14 encounter with the Dragons on March 6, having sustained damage around the area where his collarbone meets his ribs.

An operation duly followed, with the scrum-half reporting that the problem hadn’t been as bad as first thought and pledging to return stronger and as quickly as possible.

Ospreys team boss Toby Booth said at the time: “There was initial disappointment, but he’s been around a bit, Webby, and he understands injuries are part of it.”

Booth also spoke about Webb’s “super-healing” powers.

The 38-cap player had been enjoying a purple patch before his injury, winning two man-of-thematch awards in succession and impressing again when the Ospreys faced Ulster in Belfast.

Wales overlooked him for the Six Nations, but the Ospreys made him captain in Justin Tipuric’s absence and were delighted with the way the 32-year-old responded.

The Lion from 2017 is said to be looking sharp, nine weeks after his setback in Bridgend. His region’s medics will make the final call, but Webb hopes to put himself in contention for selection against the Dragons on May 16.

At the very least he wants to show Gatland he’ll be ready to head for South Africa if needed as the tour unfolds.