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The All Blacks have admitted there is a serious question mark over when star fly-half Dan Carter will return to top-flight rugby after he recovers from his ruptured Achilles tendon.

The problem was compounded by the shortage of talent to fill in at number 10, coach Graham Henry said, raising the prospect of former All Black Luke McAlister returning.

Carter (pictured), who was injured playing for the French club Perpignan, underwent surgery three weeks ago and was initially expected to be back with the All Blacks in six months, halfway through the Tri-nations series.

But he may not now be available until the end-of-year tour.

All Blacks doctor Deb Robinson said that while Carter was on course to be playing again in six months, it may take him much longer to rediscover the form that saw him rated as one of the world's best players.

"This injury is a good example of how people can recover to play their sport but they may not get that absolute power and pace that's required to play at the very top level," Robinson told a media conference.

"Guys come back and play rugby but they're not really good for a little while," she said, adding that Carter would eventually return to 100 per cent but it would take time.

Henry, who has also been in regular contact with Carter in France, said he would not be rushed back early.

"Obviously it's a concern. He's obviously a very important player in this country and we want to make sure the best is done for him," Henry said.

"We have to rely on the medical people to do that, and they tell me that everything is extemely positive. He's feeling good and that's the main thing."

Henry said Carter's absence highlighted the lack of depth at flyhalf and inside centre, and those positions were being monitored closely through the Super 14.

Although he was keen to see halfback Piri Weepu used more at fly-half, it was more a back-up position, he said.

"We see him as a nine who can play 10 rather than a 10 who can play nine. He is an outstanding halfback and it would be unfortunate if he loses those skills."

But Henry said he talked regularly with McAlister, who comes off contract with Sale at the end of the English season, and "we are hopeful that he might reconsider and look to play in New Zealand again.

"He's a 12 that can play 10 and that would add to the depth."

AFP