Queensland coach Les Kiss hasn't ruled out Liam Wright from the Reds' upcoming UK Tour as the Wallaby skipper continues his recovery from shoulder surgery.
Wright, 27, is progressing well after after a series of frustrating setbacks from an injury sustained in his June Test captaincy debut against Wales.
Early reports indicated the Super Rugby Pacific co-captain would make his return in the Reds' Round 2 clash with Moana Pasifika in Brisbane (Friday February 21) but Kiss believes the flanker could appear on tour against Bristol and Ulster.
Speaking in Brisbane this week, Kiss told media they wouldn't "over rush" things though Wright's rehabilitation was "coming along nicely".
"It’s been a really good start, we’re really optimistic and we feel like it can accelerate," Kiss said.
"In terms of a comeback, we’re still looking at the beginning of the season but we’ll use his wisdom because he’s been through it a bit and he’ll know when he’s ready."
"He may come (to the UK) and be there as a leader."
The Reds will tackle Bristol (Friday January 31) and Ulster (Friday February 7) ahead of their Super Rugby Pacific campaign with both Kiss (director of rugby) and Jeffrey Toomaga-Allen (player) sharing ties with the latter.
In other Queensland news, Kiss confirmed former backline duo Floyd Aubrey (Souths Logan Magpies) and Taj Annan (Newcastle Knights) have both departed Ballymore for rugby league.
Those departures have been offset by a heavy backline contingent of former Rebels including Mason Gordon, Filipo Daugunu, Lachie Anderson and Shute Shield playmaker Jude Gibbs.
Ex-Crusaders flyer Heremiah Murray has also signed on at Ballymore after touring Japan with Kiss' outfit.
"Last year was a good year but we've got a lot more work to do," added Kiss.
