SYDNEY - The Wallabies rugby squad had a scare here yesterday ahead of next month's European tour when star halves George Gregan and Stephen Larkham pulled out of a week-long training camp.

Skipper Gregan, Australia's most- capped player, will miss the camp after an illness to an immediate family member.

His ACT Brumbies and Wallaby teammate, flyhalf Larkham, is sitting out training to recuperate from a hamstring injury.

The absence of the long-term Australian halves pairing has interrupted coach Eddie Jones' planning for the four-Test tour of Britain and France.

Jones said he had no concerns about Larkham touring, saying he would play if there was a Test match this week, but failed to rule out doubts about Gregan flying out with the 28-man squad on October 30.

"It hasn't been discussed at this stage," Jones said.

"It's important for Gregan to spend some time at home with his family at the moment.

"He will continue his strength and speed training in Sydney throughout the week."

The Wallabies have called up young Queensland scrumhalf Josh Valentine to cover for Gregan, 31, in the camp that winds up on Friday.

Jones said Gregan and Larkham's absence was a minor issue and presented the squad with an opportunity to take more responsibility.

Gregan has yet to sign a new contract for 2005 with his current one-year deal expiring at the end of December.

The Australian Rugby Union said yesterday that the re-signing of Gregan was its major priority and expected to finalise a deal before the European tour.

Jones said the 102-Test veteran, who has hinted at playing on to the 2007 World Cup in France, should only be signed to a one-year deal.

"He can play for another season and then at the end of that season we can rate how he's going," Jones said.

"He's an outstanding player and there's no reason he can't play for longer than a year but at this stage he should be a year by year prospect." - Sapa-AFP