Phillips targets Heineken Cup return

Wales and Ospreys scrum-half Mike Phillips is on course to return for the Ospreys' opening Heineken Cup match in October – away at Leicester Tigers on October 12.

Wales and Ospreys scrum-half Mike Phillips is on course to return for the Ospreys' opening Heineken Cup match in October – away at Leicester Tigers on October 12.

Phillips, 26 years old later this month, damaged cruciate ligaments last March, and was ruled out of rugby for six months after needing surgery to cure the problem. He thus missed Wales' June tour to South Africa along with a host of others, but will be fit in time for the return Test in November.

“I'm starting to run and things are looking a lot better than they were,” Phillips told BBC Sport Wales.

“I'm hoping to get back on the field towards the end of September or October.

“The injury was difficult to take after a successful year playing for Wales and the Ospreys – I couldn't believe it when the doctor said I'd be out for six months.

“But the worst part is over now and I've just got to get back to full fitness.”

When he does return, and pending the Ospreys' quest for the Chiefs' Jamie Nutbrown, Phillips can look forward to an uninterrupted run in the Ospreys' first team after Justin Marshall's abrupt departure to Montpellier over the close season.

Nutbrown's signing, if completed, would provide Phillips with some stiff competition for the starting jersey, which Phillips is not fussed about.

“Ospreys are a team looking to be successful and I'm sure they'll get a guy in who's a top player,” continued Phillips.

“We've got a great squad at the moment and we're always bringing in quality players, so I'm sure he (Nutbrown) will be a great player and great competition.”