Rugby:Gavin Henson looks set to miss the start of the Aviva Premiership season after suffering a suspected fractured cheekbone in London Welsh's 23-17 friendly defeat against Llanelli Scarlets .

The former Wales three-quarter was tackled by Deacon Manu in the first minute and although he played on until the 33rd he had to be replaced and could now miss the clash against Leicester on September 2nd.

“We’re hoping for the best, but if it’s the worst he’s not the first player to get injured and we’ll just have to be patient and deal with it,” said head coach Lyn Jones. “These are things you’ve got to deal with in rugby. You’ve got to deal with thunderbolts all the time.

“No player wants to get injured in a pre-season friendly because it’s hugely frustrating because of all the hard work that’s been done leading up to the start of the season.”