BATH head coach Mike Ford fears that hooker Rob Webber could be set for an extended spell on the sidelines after being forced off in last weekend’s clash with Newcastle Falcons.

England international Webber suffered an ankle injury, whilst Ford is also sweating on the fitness of back row Carl Fearns, who pulled out of the warm-up with a hamstring problem.

Nick Abendanon completed a trio of injuries after being forced off with concussion but Ford is more optimistic about his chances of featuring in next Saturday’s Aviva Premiership trip to Exeter Chiefs.

“It’s the good, the bad and the ugly really,” said Ford.

“The good one is Nick Abendanon, who got concussed and it going through the protocol. He’s on day three and he’s passed all the tests so far so all being well, he’ll be fine.

“The bad is probably Carl. He’s not pulled his hamstring but it’s a bit neural. It’s not as bad as we thought and he’ll probably be out for a couple of the weeks.

“And the ugly is Rob, really. He had it x-rayed and it’s not broken or anything but he’s having a scan this afternoon so then we’ll know more and how long he’ll be out for.

“We’ll pick the team (for Exeter on)Thursday and basically, we’ll have a full squad to pick from. Dave Attwood can play, Paul James can play and Dave Wilson’s come through today’s session.

“Although we’ve lost Rob and maybe Carl, we’ve gained Dave, Davey and Paul, so it’s swings and roundabouts.

“No doubt Exeter are in the same boat as us and they’ll have injuries to deal with too.”

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