Llanelli Scarlets trained as a full squad for the first time yesterday as the clock continues to tick down towards their latest European adventure. The Scarlets's 12-strong World Cup contingent met up with the squad at Stradey Park following a week-long break.
Gareth Jenkins's side haven't played since the 31-20 defeat to Leinster at Donnybrook on November 7 and the Scarlets' director of rugby will be looking to field something near his strongest side for Friday night's Celtic League game at Glasgow (7.30).
The Scarlets, who have slipped to third in the table following Gwent Dragons' win over Connacht yesterday, have been bolstered by the return of the nine Wales squad members, plus US skipper Dave Hodges, Ireland's Simon Easterby and Canadian tighthead prop John Thiel - signed just before the ERC deadline.
The Glasgow encounter is the only game before the opening fixture of the Heineken Cup in just 11 days time when Northampton Saints arrive at Stradey.
To add extra spice to proceedings the Saints will arrive with four World Cup winners in their ranks - Matt Dawson, Steve Thompson, Ben Cohen and Paul Grayson.
Tickets are being snapped up quickly for the match.
Scarlets chief executive Stuart Gallacher said: "Tickets are in great demand already and we recommend supporters contact our ticket line to guarantee themselves a place at Stradey for what promises to be a great night out. We have also fully sold out our usual hospitality facilities and have booked a marquee to meet the high demand from the business community."
