WING Thinus Delport, who injured his knee 11 days ago against Amatori Catania, could face another month on the sidelines.

The former South African international has been to see a specialist and director of rugby John Brain believes the time-scale for recovery is usually "six weeks from the date of the injury".

"Thinus Delport had a scan and has now been to see a specialist," said Brain.

"He's got a grade two medial ligament strain. It's not a serious knee injury.

"He will get it reassessed a week Wednesday, after which we will know more accurately how long he is going to be out."

Delport's loss could be mitigated by the return of Nicolas Le Roux, who is expected to play some part in Friday's match at Bristol.

Brain is less worried by the fitness of flanker Johnny Tuamoheloa, who has played the last two games despite having a sore shin.

The Tongan is not training this week but should be fit enough to contest Pat Sanderson for the open-side spot.

Sanderson is training with England after recovering from a back problem and hopes to play his first Premiership game since October. Hooker Andre Van Niekerk is also in contention for a recall after recovering from a dislocated shoulder.