Leinster’s walking wounded nearing return

Rob Kearney, Eoin Reddan, Dominic Ryan, Shane Jennings and Marty Moore – each of whom has been sidelined of late – were all reported to have come through Leinster's training session on the artificial Donnybrook pitch yesterday.

A final decision on Jennings’s recovery from the hamstring injury sustained in the warm-up ahead of the win over Ulster last Saturday will not be made until Friday morning. Moore is set to start his first game since the away win against Zebre on October 11th, when he injured his shoulder.

Seán O'Brien and Cian Healy remain on individual training programmes, but, according to a Leinster statement, they "are expected to make further progress next week as they look to make a return to full contact training in the next two to three weeks. It is not expected that either will be available for the Champions Cup games."

Rehab

Rhys Ruddock

continues work on his fractured arm, while Kevin McLaughlin has begun rehabilitation from shoulder surgery this week.

Meanwhile, Leinster's South African lock, Quinn Roux, will remain on loan with Connacht until at least the end of this season. The 24-year-old has started in all but one of 13 games for Connacht this season.

“He has impressed everyone since he arrived here. The boys welcomed him, he really enjoys it, and when you tie those factors together, we see the result,” said Pat Lam. confirming the news.

Out-half Craig Ronaldson will follow return-to-play protocols following the concussion he sustained while scoring a try against Munster on New Year's Day. Aly Muldowney (chest infection) and Tom McCartney (stomach bug) missed training yesterday, but are expected to be available for Friday's home game against Edinburgh, as will prop Ronan Loughney and veteran second row Michael Swift.

The Clan Terrace and main stand for Friday’s game are sold out. Starting at €20 for adults, remaining tickets are on sale at tickets.ie, from the Connacht Rugby office at the Sportsground in Galway, and from Centra and SuperValu stores.

Anne McInerney

It is with sadness that the rugby community learned of the passing of Anne McInerney, who was the Leinster rugby schools administrator for 15 years until her retirement last year. Originally from Tramore, Co Waterford, she is very fondly remembered by all in Leinster who worked with her. We extend our sympathies to her friends and family. May she rest in peace.