Wilkinson still a worry

Jonny Wilkinson once again sat out Lions training in Perth yesterday but the Lions' injury problems are easing ahead of Friday's tour opener against Western Australia.

Wilkinson was one of only two men to miss out the three-hour session, along with his England team-mate Austin Healey, who has a chill. Although Healey is expected to be available for selection this weekend, it seems unlikely Wilkinson will make it as he is still troubled by a groin strain he picked up before the 37-man party flew out to face the Wallabies.

The Lions' coach, Graham Henry, though is likely to have more options than he might have thought. The Welsh prop David Young took a full part in training for the first time since his arrival, giving his injured calf a thorough workout. His international team-mates Neil Jenkins and Martin Williams were also involved after recovering from the after-effects of a cut eye and ankle problem, respectively. The former Wigan rugby league player, Jason Robinson, may be pitched into the action.