But the Cardiff Blues flyer returned to form in impressive fashion after replacing James Hook who left the pitch against Samoa at half-time with a shoulder injury and did not return.

Hook now faces what could be an extended spell on the sidelines and it appears that the battle for the 15 shirt in the mean time will be a straight shootout between Halfpenny and fellow British and Irish Lion Lee Byrne.

And Edwards has seen enough in Halfpenny’s second-half burst against Samoa to convince him the he could be the man for the job.

“I couldn’t be happier for the kid,” said Edwards.

“He’s had some horrific injuries and had rehab after rehab. That can really knock at your spirit.

“But he’s always done it to the letter, been very dedicated and kept himself in good shape.

“He made a huge difference, besides the try he created. For a guy who’s played only two or three games at full-back, he was excellent.

“He really seems like a genuine back-three player, not an outside wing.

“Leigh’s contribution to the score was outstanding. I know he’s a guy who wants to play in that position. This was his chance.”

Hook is not the only injury doubt for Wales ahead of their next Pool D clash with Namibia next Monday as Dan Lydiate is also struggling with an ankle injury, prompting some to suggest a shock recall for veteran Martyn Williams.

But the 36-year-old Williams came off injured in the Blues game against Ulster this weekend and scans have revealed he has a broken arm and looks destined to remain stuck on 99 caps for the foreseeable future.