However it has since transpired that there was no dislocation to the ankle thus reducing the recovery time – it is now three to four months – and opening the door to some Six Nations action.

In addition the fears that Lydiate, a British and Irish Lion candidate, would be ruled out of next summer’s tour have also been quashed.

With Lydiate ruled out of the autumn internationals and much of the Six Nations campaign it is likely that Wales will turn to former skipper Ryan Jones to fill in at blindside flanker.

Lydiate is adamant he will be looking to make a speedy recovery.

“I’ve bounced back from injury before and I will look to do that again,” he said.

“I just want to thank everyone for their kind messages.

“It’s much appreciated and it has really helped lift my spirits after what happened on Friday night.”