Laidlaw a massive loss for Scotland - Webb

Rhys Webb says the absence of Greig Laidlaw is a “massive loss” to Scotland but the scrum-half knows Wales will have plenty of other attacking threats to contend with at Murrayfield on Saturday.

Scotland captain Laidlaw was ruled out of the rest of the Six Nations after sustaining an ankle injury in the first half of the defeat against France in Paris last time out.

The Gloucester pivot was outstanding in the victory over Ireland on the opening weekend and Webb believes his opposite number will be sorely missed by Scotland.

But the Wales playmaker has seen enough of Scotland to know they are not short of players who are capable of causing problems for Rob Howley’s men.

“Them losing Greig is a massive loss – as a leader and as a kicker as well,” said Webb.

“His accuracy off the tee is pretty impressive, so whoever replaces him will be putting in a lot of practice this week.”

Ali Price came off the bench to replace Laidlaw at Stade de France and Webb thinks the 23-year-old is a more than able replacement for Laidlaw.

“He has been playing in the Glasgow team which has been full of confidence last season and this season.” said Webb.

“He has a good understanding with Finn Russell at nine and 10, so he is likely to start.

“They have got lots of attacking threats, so they will want to play some rugby as well, especially with Finn Russell at 10. He has been pulling the strings for Glasgow, and Stuart Hogg has been carving it up for the last two games.”