Robert Howley took no part in training yesterday as Wales began serious preparations for their Five Nations Championship clash against title favourites France.

Scrum-half Howley, who suffered an ankle injury playing for Cardiff against Welsh Challenge Trophy final opponents Pontypridd last weekend, was joined on the sidelines by fellow Lion David Young.

But Welsh coach Kevin Bowring is quietly confident that both players - prop Young has a calf muscle problem - will play a part during today's work-out.

Centre Allan Bateman missed the session for personal reasons and Bowring received encouraging news about full back Kevin Morgan. The promising 21-year-old showed no obvious signs of a shoulder injury - one that Pontypridd coach Dennis John fears could be aggravated by playing in next Sunday's Wembley Test - and looks likely to start.

"Kevin has been the biggest fitness worry," said Welsh Rugby Union spokesman Lyn Davies.