Gavin Henson could make his long-awaited Cardiff Blues debut in the Heineken Cup against Edinburgh at Murrayfield on Friday night.
The Wales centre had not been expected to return from a wrist injury until their Pro12 derby against Newport Gwent Dragons on 23 December.
But coach Gareth Baber says Henson is now fit for consideration.
"He will be in contention for the Dragons game and he is in contention for this week," said joint coach Baber.
However, the Blues will continue without veteran flanker Martyn Williams (broken arm) as they seek a fourth successive tournament win following victories over Racing Metro, London Irish and Edinburgh.
Henson suffered the injury in Wales' 19-9 World Cup warm-up win against England at the Millennium Stadium on August, ending his hopes of appearing at the tournament in New Zealand.
I am sure there will be a lot of attention around him [Gavin Henson] when he makes his debut for usGareth BaberCardiff Blues joint coach
Henson signed for the Blues ahead of the deadline for teams to name their Heineken Cup squads having played for Saracens and Toulon last season after leaving the Ospreys.
The wrist injury has taken longer-than-expected to clear up and he has been suffering from a hamstring problem, but Baber is hopeful the 33-times capped player is ready to make his mark on the field.
"He has a little niggle in his hamstring but in terms of his hand he is back to where he needs to be and he will be available going forward," said Baber.
"He is a quality player and has had the time to get himself together and do his rehab properly, and hopefully when he makes his return he will be right on top of what he needs to do as I am sure there will be a lot of attention around him when he makes his debut for us."
The Blues beat Edinburgh 25-8 in last weekend's third round to remain unbeaten at the top of Pool Two with Jamie Roberts and Casey Laulala continuing their established midfield partnership.
A Henson appearance against Edinburgh in the rematch or the Dragons could precede his return to the Liberty Stadium, where the Blues take on the Ospreys in the Pro12 on New Year's Day.
Henson has not played on a regular basis for two-and-a-half years becausee of a high-profile rugby sabbatical.
