In France there is a mix of good and bad news as the six French Heineken Cup sides begin their preparations for the forthcoming rounds
Biarritz Olympique skipper and No 8 Thomas Lievremont returned to action last weekend after an eight-week absence, scoring a try in his side's 30-16 win over Clermont Auvergne.
And Stade Français Paris' full back Juan Hernendez was back after seven weeks out injured to help Argentina to their shock victory over France.
But his club captain David Auradou has injured a hand and could be out for two weeks, forcing him to miss the visit of Ulster in Round 3.
Perpignan lock Christophe Porcu has suffered concussion and will be out for the mandatory two weeks, including the trip to Newport Gwent Dragons.
On the bright side, centres Jean-Philippe Grandclaude and Chistophe Manas along with lock Colin Gaston are expected to come back into the Perpignan side this weekend for their game against Grenoble.
Double champions Toulouse are sweating on the availability of Trevor Brennan after he was forced off in the clash with Castres Olympique while front row forward Virgile Lacombe has a neck injury and won't play against Agen this weekend. Prop Patrice Collazo received a red card against Castres and is waiting to see if he is banned.
However, better news is that lock Romain Millo-Chluski and prop Jean-Baptiste Poux are expected back for this weekend.
