DAVID Denton will make his return to first team action when Bath take on Newcastle Falcons in the Anglo-Welsh Cup tomorrow at Kingston Park (3pm).

The Scottish international, who has been sidelined since September with a hamstring injury, comes into the side at number eight and will be joined in the back row by David Sisi and captain Guy Mercer.

For the second successive game, Beno Obano, Jack Walker and Shaun Knight headline the front row, with Levi Douglas and Tom Ellis once again the second row pairing.

After an impressive competitive first team debut in the 17-17 draw against Gloucester last week, Harry Davies continues at full-back, whilst Jack Wilson and Jeff Williams occupy the wing positions.

Ben Tapuai is joined in the midfield by Max Clark, while Chris Cook and Adam Hastings fill the half-back roles.

New recruit Sam Nixon, who has signed from Plymouth Albion, could make his debut with the prop named among the replacements.

The 20-year-old has agreed a contract with the club until the end of the 2018/19 season.

Director of Rugby Todd Blackadder said: “There were some really strong performances across the park against Gloucester last week and once again it will give a number of players some valuable game time.

“Aled Brew is unfortunately going to be out for a couple of months, but I think it’s important to recognise his contribution and the manner in which he scored his try after breaking his arm.

“It’s a huge boost to have David Denton back in the first team picture after his layoff and we’re delighted to have Sam on board. He will quickly become an asset to the squad and add that depth in the front row.”

Scrum-half Darren Allinson, who signed on a short-term contract in November from London Irish has now returned to his parent club.

Bath: 15. Harry Davies, 14. Jeff Williams, 13. Max Clark, 12. Ben Tapuai, 11. Jack Wilson, 10. Adam Hastings, 9. Chris Cook, 1. Beno Obano, 2. Jack Walker, 3. Shaun Knight, 4. Levi Douglas, 5. Tom Ellis, 6. David Sisi, 7. Guy Mercer (capt), 8. David Denton.

Replacements: 16. Michael van Vuuren, 17. Darryl Marfo, 18. Sam Nixon, 19. Elliott Stooke, 20. Paul Grant, 21. Will Homer, 22. Darren Atkins, 23. Tom Homer.