Patchell can spur Scarlets says Davies

RHYS Patchell’s return from a long-term injury can help take the Scarlets to another level says Jonathan Davies.

The 28-year-old spent a year on the sidelines, and the Scarlets backs lacked a cutting edge in his absence. Following a couple of appearances for the Scarlets’ development side, Patchell made his senior comeback in the west Walians’ 22-19 victory over the Ospreys on New Year’s Day.

While his goal kicking was off target, the 21-times capped Wales fly-half ’s attacking game helped get the Scarlets over the line. And Scarlets captain Davies believes Patchell’s return can give Dwayne Peel’s side an edge.

“Patch is a key member of our squad,” said the Wales centre. “Patch has been through a long injury lay-off, and he worked really hard to get back on the field even after all the setbacks he’s had.

“He’s one of the generals out there, and it’s a positive to see him out on the field competing with the other boys. All our tens have different strengths.

“What we try to do in the week is making sure the flow to our attack is a constant.

“With Patch sometimes you’ve got to put the reins on him especially when he gets a bit excited. He’s been great, working hard to get back from injury, and hopefully now he gets a run of games to show what he’s all about.”

The Scarlets have endured a wretched time over the last few months having been forced to isolate for ten days in Belfast, while their opening two Champions Cup fixtures against Bristol Bears, and Bordeaux were cancelled.

But Davies thinks the Scarlets are moving in the right direction under former Wales and British & Irish Lions scrum-half Dwayne Peel.

“Dwayne was a legend of the club as a player, and he loves this club,” said Davies.

“There’s ambition and the good Scarlets sides of old always had a steeliness about them.

“The boys had a really good and tough summer. I think that was important to make sure we are hardworking, and that’s a given.”