Wales centre Jamie Roberts is a major doubt for the autumn internationals after undergoing ankle surgery for the injury picked up while playing for Racing Metro two weeks ago.
The Six Nations champions kick-off their autumn campaign against South Africa on November 9 before taking on Argentina, Tonga and Australia.
However, the game against the Wallabies falls outside the International Rugby Board autumn international window, which means Racing can refuse to release Roberts, even if he is fit.
Roberts joined the exodus of Welsh internationals to France in the summer, making three appearances for the Top 14 side after damaging his ankle in the 19-16 win over Perpignan.
He scored a try in the Lions’ 41-16 win over Australia in Sydney to clinch a first Test series win for 16 years and is determined to play some part in his country’s internationals.
He said: “The doctors seem to think I’ll be out for a good few months. But I will be working on my rehab, trying my best to be fit for selection.”
Racing Metro assistant coach Laurent Labit however believes that Roberts faces “at least two months” on the sidelines.
“Jamie has reported back to us after 10 days in Cardiff for the operation,” said Labit.
“He will be out for at least two months after surgery and will hopefully be back playing some time in November, but he will probably miss the Wales Tests.”
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