FORMER Newport Gwent Dragons star Taulupe Faletau is not expected to be named in Rob Howley’s Wales squad for the autumn series through injury.

The 61-times capped number-eight injured his knee in the first half of his Aviva Premiership debut for Bath on September 3.

There were hopes he would return to fitness in time for Wales’ internationals against Australia, Argentina, Japan and New Zealand at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.

However, Bath do not expect the world-class back-rower to start training again until the middle of November.

The news comes as a further blow to the 25-year-old’s career at The Rec, which began with a friendly against the Scarlets in August following his move from Rodney Parade.

Howley, deputising as head coach while Warren Gatland is on British and Irish Lions duty, announces his squad for the autumn series on Tuesday.

Wales face the Wallabies first on November 5 and then the Pumas, Cherry Blossoms and All Blacks on successive Saturdays throughout the month.

With Gloucester’s Ross Moriarty ruled out of the Australia game because it falls outside World Rugby’s international window, Howley faces a selection dilemma at number-eight.

Faletau’s former Dragons teammates Hallam Amos and Tyler Morgan will be among those hoping to be included in Howley’s squad.