KEN Owens has expressed his concern at the potential merger between the Ospreys and Scarlets as part of radical proposals being discussed for Welsh regional rugby's future.

The potential merger is a focal point of talks to be held by Wales' Professional Game Board and comes just four days before Warren Gatland's national team attempt to take another step towards claiming a Six Nations Grand Slam in Scotland.

The proposal would see the western regions join forces with a professional side established in the north.

Scarlets player Owens, speaking in his role as chairman of the Welsh Rugby Players Association, said: "I am deeply concerned about the situation that the players across the four regions face.

"I recognise that this is the most challenging situation that I or arguably any player has faced during our rugby careers.

"I appeal to all stakeholders to have the concerns and welfare needs of all those that stand to be affected by the proposed changes at the forefront of their minds.

"It's also clear players need to be represented on the PRB because they can and must be part of the solution. Without them there is no Welsh rugby."

Andries Pretorius, WRPA chief executive, said: “This is an incredibly challenging time for players, who clearly are vital to the success and future of Welsh rugby.

“We are told the game is not sustainable in its current form in Wales and major changes are needed. In the face of that uncertainty over the course of this season, players have responded incredibly constructively, giving their all for their regions and our country, and recognising the need to play their part in a healthy future for our sport.

“But with such a seismic change seemingly now proposed for our professional game we are deeply concerned about the impact it will have on the livelihoods of players and their families.

“Fans will be reeling right now about the future and we are merging two regions will see a great many talented players need to uproot themselves and their families to leave South and West Wales.

“We call on the PRB to recognise their duty of care and join us in supporting players, while ensuring none are forced out of the game altogether.

“It would also be terrible for players, fans and our sport to lose Welsh talent to clubs in England or France who are offering the security players need in their short playing careers.

“We can only hope that Project Reset will enhance our game in Wales, but it has thrown up far more questions than it has answered so far and could the timing of all this be any worse?

I’ve had countless players reach out for support and raising justifiable concerns. This is all taking a massive toll on our boys and they need some real certainty and quickly."