WARREN Gatland has backed “outstanding” flanker Aaron Shingler to bounce back from his injury hell and throw himself into the mix for World Cup selection.
The Scarlets star has been out of action for 12 months and hasn't played this campaign due to a serious knee injury suffered in last season's PRO14 final defeat to Leinster.
Shingler was still named in Wales' extended World Cup training squad last week and will now fight with the likes of Aaron Wainwright, Ross Moriarty and Josh Navidi for a plane ticket to Japan.
“Aaron was very good in the 2018 Six Nations,” said Gatland. “He gives us variety in the loose forwards.
He has matured as a player and as an individual.
“The trio in the Six Nations complemented each other well and were outstanding. They are all quick, can all carry, and are good on the ball.
Aaron is an outstanding line-out exponent and offers something a bit different.
“I hope we see the best of him when he gets an opportunity.”
Despite being crowned Six Nations Grand Slam champions in March, the Welsh line-out was an area of concern for Gatland as it wobbled on several occasions.
By contrast with Shingler a key figure in 2018, the Welsh line-out operated at a 94 per cent success rate.
Shingler is nearing a comeback and the Scarlets are hopeful he will be fit for their Champions Cup play-off against the Ospreys at the Liberty Stadium this month.
TRP also understands the Scarlets are considering giving the 31-year-old game time for one of their feeder clubs in the Principality Premiership before the end of the season.
“Aaron is pretty close to a comeback,” Gatland said. “He may be available for the Scarlets in the play-off game, but whether he plays or not, with the limited amount of rugby he has had, will be a decision for the club and, potentially, him.”
