WALES scrum half Robert Howley rates his chances of making next Saturday's Five Nations Championship game against Ireland in Cardiff at no better than 50-50. A decision on his fitness will almost certainly be made before training today.

The Cardiff player strained a ligament in his shoulder when he fell awkwardly during training last week and, despite early progress, it has not healed as quickly as he had hoped.

"Last Wednesday I was quite confident of being fit, but now I am not so sure," Howley said. "It hasn't come on as I hoped it would have done - it is quite painful when I move my arm across my chest."

If Howley withdraws it will be a massive blow for the Welsh. Howley was in sparkling form when Wales destroyed Scotland 34-19 at Murrayfield nine days ago, striking up a potent half back partnership with Arwel Thomas.

Pontypridd's Paul John would be the obvious replacement, probably allowing Richmond scrumhalf Andy Moore to be promoted to the substitutes' bench.