New Warwickshire captain Heath Streak is optimistic England spinner Ashley Giles can overcome the hip problem which has cast a major doubt over his career.
The 33-year-old Giles is due to return from a break in America this week as he tries to fight his way back to full fitness.
The left-armer played a major part in England's Ashes triumph but was forced to return home from the tour of Pakistan after playing in the first two Tests and has not played since.
That has opened the door for Hampshire veteran Shaun Udal, who is favourite to play against Sri Lanka at Lord's in May after his 4-14 burst in England's third Rest win in India last month.
Streak, a former Hampshire overseas player, said: "Ashley has had a break and is due back some time this week.
"The ECB fitness and physio staff are dealing with things and we are hoping for our sake and the sake of England that he makes it back.
"It is a big blow for a player to have a long spell out and then there is the psychology involved when an injury may be career threatening.
"I had that early in my career where I had knee problems and had to have surgery.
"The psychology of worrying about a threat to your career is something you don't want to have to confront."
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