FORMER Newport Gwent Dragons star Taulupe Faletau has been released from the Wales squad back to his club Bath in order to train and prepare for their Aviva Premiership clash with Bristol on Friday night.

Faletau, who left Rodney Parade for the Recreation Ground this summer, has not played since damaging his knee playing for Bath in September.

But the hope is that he'll be fit to face South Africa on November 26. 

"Taulupe has progressed excellently with his recovery and he has been released back to Bath this week to prepare for their game against Bristol,” said Wales head coach Rob Howley.

“We have a good working relationship with Bath and our medical team, led by Prav (Mathema), have been working closely and in unison with the team at Bath and it is pleasing that Taulupe is in line to make his return for them this week and will link back up with us on Monday.”

Faletau will link back up with the national squad next Monday.