Alun Wyn Jones to make surprise return for Ospreys and lift gloom hanging over Wales squad ahead of Italy clash Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards said: "We are a little bit better this week, I think. Ryan Jones will be available and Richard Hibbard and I don't think we picked up anything too serious in the game. That said, Edwards tempered the relief over Ryan Jones, in particular, by claiming Wales would have to be far better as a collective against a French side who will themselves be missing injured captain Pascal Pape. "Certain players had bad days - certain players who have been absolutely outstanding for us in the past," he added. But I don't think one bad game for certain people makes them into a very poor player, particularly people who have done it for you in the past. They are a very big team, very physical and powerful. They are clearly very good at turnover ball, and they have smart half-backs. Howley is bound to make changes with Ryan Jones, Hibbard and possibly Ollie Kohn starting in the pack. Jones, in particular, will be key if only for his experience and knowhow. Edwards added; "You look at all your experienced players with 30 or 40 caps and expect them to lead from the front. You look at the lads who have played there before. We have to meet passion with passion. Ryan brings a wealth of experience and was outstanding last year coming off the bench. He is an outstanding all-round rugby player. Howley will name his side on Thursday with Edwards admitting that nobody can take selection for granted. "Everyone will be nervous and that is the way it should be in international rugby," he said. Even the experienced players should know they are two bad games away from being in jeopardy. It should be like that with the All Blacks, and any international team around the world. One player who can expect to play is Ospreys" openside flanker Justin Tipuric. Captain Sam Warburton is likely to switch to the blindside with Tipuric and Toby Faletau completing the back row and Jones stepping into the second row at the expense of Andrew Coombs. Edwards said: "We have not picked the team yet, but if we did pick it that way, we would be happy. Anybody who has watched Wales over the last five years knows they want the ball in play and a loose entertaining game because that suits our game.