Bath boosted by Flatman return

Bath prop David Flatman could be back in action in three months after being told he does not require an Achilles tendon operation.

It was feared the 24-year-old may have suffered a torn tendon but specialists have determined that a shard of bone has been the cause of his ankle discomfort.

Flatman, who travelled to New Zealand and Australia with England but was well rested during the recent tour, will now undergo an arthroscopy to shave some bone from the heel.

The club are hopeful that Flatman may now be fit to play in their opening Heineken Cup fixtures towards the end of October.

Bath's head of physical preparation Chris Mallac said: "David will be on crutches for three weeks and is likely to be back running in six.

"After that he will be building up his endurance and I would say that he could be back within 12 weeks, although we will not rush him."