James Merriman and Redford Pennycook set for Bristol play-off return

James Merriman and Redford Pennycook could return for Bristol's play-off game at London Welsh next month.

Pennycook, 26, re-signed for the Championship side from Newcastle last month but has yet to make an appearance because of a shoulder injury.

Fellow flanker Merriman, 28, has been out for four weeks after undergoing knee surgery.

"They'll probably come into selection around play-off five," coach Liam Middleton told BBC Radio Bristol.

"Hopefully by that point, with two games to go, we'll know if we're in the running and determine whether we'll get a semi-final place or not so it will be a big match."

Meanwhile, Jason Harris-Wright says he is ready to prove himself at Bristol after a three-month spell on the sidelines.

The hooker arrived at the Memorial Stadium from Leinster in November but a bicep problem followed by a knee injury suffered during training has limited him to four appearances.

He made his return to action in Bristol's 65-3 victory over Doncaster in their opening play-off game last week.

"It's really good to be back, especially at such an important time of the season," he added. "Play-off time is huge and to be able to contribute is great.

"It was tough after the first injury, nearly coming back and getting another one. I had to approach it day by day and crack on with my rehab and see the bigger picture.

"I wanted to come here to play games and I was starting to get that opportunity. To get two knocks like that was pretty frustrating but it's how you bounce back I think.

"It's now a great opportunity to impress."