Williams touch and go for Wales

Williams re-injured his foot in the World Cup clash against Australia at Twickenham after spending most of the year on the sidelines.

Scarlets coach Wayne Pivac told Walesonline that the call of whether to play him in their Six Nations opener against Ireland in Dublin could be quite tight.

“Liam is going to be touch and go in terms of availability for us around the timing of the Six Nations,” confirmed Scarlets boss Wayne Pivac.

“That is going to be a medical call at the time. He is pain free so that’s a good sign," he said.

The fact that it is a recurring injury means they are likely to be extra cautious, even though Wales will also be missing first-choice fullback Leigh Halfpenny.

“We are not going to rush him back because it’s the second time around for that foot.

“So it’s really important we get it right otherwise he could be out for a considerable time out if we bring him back early.

“So it will be based on when he is ready to go rather than him having to be right for this particular game."

“He is slightly ahead of schedule which is good news so we will let it take its time,” he added.

Pivac admitted that playing at the World Cup was a gamble that did not pay off for Williams, but he is hopeful that this time it will be managed better.

“We are talking about a World Cup and injuries and you take risks from time to time as coaching and medical teams.

“It’s gone, so it’s history. We have to get it right this time for the player.

“This time around he has had a bone graft as well as a screw in there.

“Once that has healed up he will be good to go and he should be right,” he said.