Harlequins director of rugby Conor O’Shea says he still has plenty of fron trow options despite losing new prop Nick Mayhew for at least six weeks.

The New Zealander broke his ankle in training on Tuesday and has been ruled out until October after undergoing surgery this week.

Mayhew should be back to boost the squad ahead of the opening game of this year’s Heineken Cup at Connacht.

But O’Shea said he was more concerned for the youngster than he is for his plans.

“It is pretty frustrating for Nick, but it was just one of those training ground accidents you have,” he said.

“We have plenty of cover in the form of Mark Lambert and James Johnston and others, but you have to feel for him.

“When you are a young player at a new club all you want to do is settle in, train and play.

“Luckily, it was only a straight break and hopefully he’ll be back in action soon.”

Amlin Challenge Cup holders Quins kick-off their European crusade in Ireland on November 11 and face a tough task to qualify for the knock-out stages with Gloucester and Toulouse in their group.

But O’Shea, who insists his men can compete on three fronts this season, was not looking that far ahead.

“The Heineken Cup is so far away, it is not even worth thinking about what happens if we win or lose certain games,” he added.

“We’re really excited about the season and the squad of young players we have are growing together all the time.

“We can only take each game as it comes and go on from there.”