Joseph faces a race to be fit for opener
England international centre Jonathan Joseph is ‘being monitored’ heading into tomorrow night’s Gallagher Premiership opener away at Bristol Bears the club have confirmed.
Outside centre Joseph has 54 caps for England and is seen as a defensive leader in the Bath backline but is yet to play for the Blue, Black and White under new head of rugby Johann van Graan having missed the club’s preseason wins over Championship sides Coventry Rugby and Jersey Reds with a ‘knee issue.’
Joseph, 31, was named in the starting XV to face Jersey on Friday night before being withdrawn as a precaution.
With youth all around him with the likes of Max Ojomoh and Cam Redpath competing for the inside centre berth and Orlando Bailey set to start at fly-half, Joseph’s experience in the side is highly valued.
Another centre option, Max Wright, is still recovering from surgery having been on loan at Newcastle Falcons last season and he is likely to return to action in the Premiership Rugby Cup at the end of September.
Will Butt, who has shone in pre-season, looks to be on standby to step in at 13 against Bristol who are missing their own talisman in the same position - Semi Radradra - who is recovering from knee surgery.
The good news for the Blue, Black and White is star wingers Ruaridh Mcconnochie and Will Muir are both available for selection.
England international Mcconnochie has returned earlier than expected from a knee injury sustained at the end of last season and came through the win against Jersey on Friday without any problems.
Muir, who was Bath’s player of the season in 2021/22 and top scorer, has recovered from a pectoral injury and his return provides a significant boost.
There is more good news in the front row for van Graan with loosehead prop Juan Schoeman and tighthead Johannes Jonker both back in full training and in contention to face the Bears who are set to welcome back England stars Kyle Sinckler and Ellis Genge for the derby clash under the lights.
Elsewhere in the Blue, Black and White pack, head of medical services Rory Murray has confirmed flanker Miles Reid and lock Quinn Roux are unlikely to feature at Ashton Gate.
Murray said: “Miles has made excellent progress over the past few weeks. He will step up his training load this week but will not be available for selection against Bristol Bears.
“Quinn suffered a concussion injury in training and will be monitored ahead of the trip to Bristol Bears.”