TOM Savage is nearing a return to action and will begin contact training this week.
The Gloucester captain has been side-lined since suffering a torn pectoral muscle against Leicester Tigers last November.
He underwent surgery as a result but is ready to raise his rehabilitation with a comeback pencilled in for four weeks' time.
Nigel Davies said: "Tom's about four weeks away. He's looking good and is doing some running.
"The one good thing from that kind of injury is he's been able to keep his anaerobic conditioning up so he should come back very quickly. He will take part in some contact work this week
"It will be good to have him back. Lua (Lokotui) is around the same stage and they will add to our resources in the second row.
"It's really important we have everyone fighting for their positions to build that hunger and desire in the team. "
Providing Savage remains on course he could be in contention to be selected for the crunch Premiership clash with Northampton Saints on March 1.
