The British and Irish Lions trio are poised for a return in the Ospreys’ huge Heineken Cup game against French leaders Clermont-Auvergne on Saturday.

The news will come as a timely boost for Gatland with Wales’ Six Nations opener against England at Twickenham just over three weeks away.

“Shane is back to fitness, with James and Alun Wyn,” said Ospreys coach Sean Holley.

“We are very nearly up to full speed there.

“And that is clearly really encouraging for everyone concerned in Wales.

“Some of these players are prodigious talents and will be in consideration for Saturday.

“Shane, for one, is a player you want involved in your squad in the big matches.

“He can do something out of nothing and it does not matter how many weeks he has been out, he is still a quality act.”