BATH prospect Andy Lloyd could learn within days whether the worrying injury to his back requires surgery that may end his season.

The 20-year-old, who can play blindside flanker, no 8 or lock, has been hampered by a disc problem that has restricted him to just one substitute appearance this season.

And after a series of visits to specialists in recent weeks, the 6ft 4in Lloyd's next appointment will determine whether he needs to go under the surgeon's knife.

Head coach Jon Callard admitted: "It's looking likely that with an operation, he could be out for the rest of the season.

"That's yet to be confirmed by a specialist, but within the next three or four days we should know.

"He has seen a couple of people already and this will be the final confirmation."

Such a blow would be devastating news for a player who exploded onto the club scene at the end of last season.

Having made his debut, as a replacement against Leicester Tigers at the back end of the 1999-2000 season, the Swansea-born ace recovered from surgery to make appearances in all Bath's Zurich Championship games in the last campaign.

That earned him a spot on Wales' summer tour to Japan, where he won his first cap and scored a try in the 64-10 win over the host country.

Lloyd had been expected to cement his position as one of the club's up-and-coming stars, only for this latest setback to leave him sidelined.

Callard added: "The way he finished last season, it is very frustrating for him because he hasn't been able to continue his development."

Bath have however, received better news of the status of Lloyd's compatriot Nathan Thomas.

The 25-year-old has been missing for a month with a neck injury.

But Callard said: "He's been able to step up his training after talking to a specialist."

The United game scheduled for Monday 26th November against London Wasps has now been postponed.

There will be a United game against Bridgend on Wednesday, November 28 at the Rec with a 7.15pm kick off. Admission is free.