ALUN Wyn Jones is physically and mentally in ‘good shape’ to face England on Saturday after his injury, Wales coach Warren Gatland insists.

Wales’ world class lock has played in just two matches for the Ospreys since hurting ing his toe in November.

But the 2009 Lions star is recalled at the expense of Ryan Jones who had a fine game as skipper and second row in the 27-13 victory over Scotland a fortnight ago.

Gatland admitted it was a tough decision to drop the 2008 Grand Slam winning captain to the bench but is backing Wyn Jones to shine when he wins his 60th cap this weekend as Wales bid for the Triple Crown.

“He’s fit, he’s experienced and he had a really good World Cup,” Gatland said.

“We’ve had a couple of injuries in that position. For us, having someone of that experience to come back also gives us some size and physicality. He looks in good shape.”

Gatland agreed however that Wyn Jones may struggle with the cut and thrust of international rugby after his long lay off from the game, missing Wales’ victories over Ireland and Scotland in the Six Nations as well as December’s defeat to Australia in Cardiff.

“He is going to struggle a little bit for 80 minutes but I don’t have any concerns over his experience and his ability and that’s why we are throwing him in there,” he said.

“If you know Alun Wyn in terms of his personality, he hasn’t turned up in the last few weeks out of shape.

“He would have worked harder than most players and he’s diligent in the way he prepares, both on and off the field.

“So even though he’s had a lack of game time, I know he’ll be in good shape physically and mentally as well.”

Two years ago at Twickenham Wyn Jones received a yellow card for tripping hooker Dylan Hartley which effectively lost the game for Wales as England scored 17 points when he was off the pitch. But he has won at ‘HQ’ with Wales when they beat England 26-19 in 2008 on their way to Grand Slam glory.

And he said he is raring to go on Saturday.

“I am delighted to start,” the 26-year-old said. “It will be a step up from regional rugby to international rugby fitness-wise, but I am happy. I will probably be blowing a bit, but you always are in a Test match.

“It has been frustrating watching from the sidelines – I am the most impatient patient you will get.

“I just wanted to get fit as quickly as possible, and I am lucky enough to be back in the frame with Wales.”

Replacement back James Hook, meanwhile, looks set to be involved on Saturday despite contracting chickenpox that has meant he has stayed in France, where he plays for Perpignan.