Joseph Dweba has yet to feature in Exeter's opening two competitive matches this season — a PREM Rugby Cup win over Bristol Bears and a PREM defeat to Gloucester — but director of rugby Rob Baxter says the hooker is in full training and not far from a recall.
"Joseph's fine and in full training, but we just went on form for the first selection," Baxter said. "His opportunities will come shortly. He's not far away; he's working hard and showing a good attitude in training."
Dweba has lost ground to club stalwart Jack Yeandle and Louie Gulley, who scored on his PREM debut last weekend. Baxter also flagged Max Norey, back fully fit after featuring regularly last season, as further competition at hooker.
Dweba made 26 appearances across all competitions in his debut season at Sandy Park, contributing five tries, and was a consistent presence in the side that reached the PREM final.
Elsewhere, outside back Tommy Wyatt is available for Exeter's trip to Bath this weekend after shaking off a shoulder knock. A return would be his first PREM appearance for the club in 16 months following an ACL injury that ruled him out for the entirety of last season. Italian international Ross Vintcent, recovering from a pre-season hamstring strain, is also nearing a return, though Baxter indicated the club will not rush a player he describes as a high-speed athlete back before he is fully cleared.