THE Scarlets are set to hand a Magners League debut to teenage talent George North with head coach Nigel Davies hailing the 18-year-old as a star of the future.

North is poised to start at the Stadio Monigo after making a big impression during pre-season.

Standing at 6ft 4in and 17 stone, the North Walian has power and pace in abundance and Davies has no hesitation in playing him.

"George has been exceptional in pre-season and has really shown up well," he said.

"It's been a big rise for him. He played for Wales Under-18s last season along with Tom Prydie and at that level he was quite outstanding.

"He went under the radar a little bit as Tom had all publicity with playing for Wales and rightly so.

"But George will surprise a few this year. I have been very impressed with his maturity and ability. He is certainly one to watch."

The Scarlets fly to Treviso this evening and are boosted by both fly-half Rhys Priestland and full-back Morgan Stoddart passing fitness tests late yesterday.

They are without Wales prop Rhys Thomas, however, who is nursing a hamstring niggle and stays at home. On-loan Bath signing Jonny Fa'amatuainu is also in the squad.