Super Fury animal backed to rock Italy - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Super Fury animal backed to rock Italy

Shaun Edwards has described Wales' scrum-half rookie Warren Fury as "one of the toughest kids I have ever coached".

Fury could make an unlikely RBS 6 Nations debut on Saturday after a torn hamstring ruled Dwayne Peel out of his country's remaining games against Italy and Ireland and - although the London Irish player has not appeared for the Exiles since January - Wales defence coach Edwards has no doubt he will be ready for battle on Saturday.

"He is one of the toughest kids I have ever coached," said Edwards. "He is very tough, physically and mentally, and he wasn't intimidated by the South Africans. He applied himself well. Injuries have hindered his career, but he was one of our favourite players at Wasps because of his attitude. He is a very determined lad."

While Fury can relish a possible opportunity at Stadio Flaminio, Peel must reflect on an injury that means he might not play again before Lions boss Ian McGeechan announces his squad for South Africa next month.

Peel was the Lions Test scrum-half in New Zealand four years ago, while Mike Phillips now reclaims the Wales number nine shirt he wore against France 12 days ago.

Edwards added: "This is a big blow for Dwayne, It could not have come at a worse time for him.

"The injury means Dwayne has lost his Wales position, but he is a very resilient character."

Edwards, meanwhile, has warned Wales cannot run the risk of entering "self-destruct" mode against Italy.

Wales need to win in Rome - and by a healthy margin - if they intend keeping the pressure on Grand Slam-chasing Ireland.

The Irish, who arrive in Cardiff next week, currently hold a two-point lead at the Six Nations summit. But their points difference is also superior - 23 better off - to second-placed Wales', helped by a 38-9 victory over Italy last month.

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