Roberts suffered a knee injury in Cardiff’s 28-9 triumph over Newport Gwent Dragons on December 23 and will not return before the Six Nations opener with Ireland.

But the Blues’ centre will recover in time to be selected in Warren Gatland’s squad, and Cardiff coach Justin Burnell insists Warburton will be fighting fit for the clash with the European champions.

“It’s nothing – Sam will be playing next week,” said Burnell.

In Warburton’s absence, Burnell praised the performance of stand-in openside flanker Josh Navidi and insists the 21-year-old can play a big part in the future of Welsh rugby.

“What a fantastic prospect Josh is,” said Burnell.

“At the moment we all know who the number one openside is in Wales, if not the world, and that’s Sam Warburton.

“But Josh is battling it out for our No 2 spot with Martyn Williams at the moment.

“Josh is another great advert for Welsh rugby. You always hear about Justin Tipuric, but I thought Josh won that contest.”