British and Irish Lions prop Cian Healy has been cited for allegedly biting an opponent during the game against Western Force in Perth today.

Healy is alleged to have committed the offence on Western Force scrumhalf Brett Sheehan during the first half of the game at Patersons Stadium, the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) has announced.

Ireland and Leinster forward Healy was later carried off after suffering an ankle injury that is threatening his future participation in the tour.

England prop Alex Corbisiero will fly from Argentina to Brisbane and join up with the Lions party as injury cover for Healy, the Lions have announced.

Head coach Warren Gatland said: “Cian has had an X-ray and, while his left ankle is not broken, he will be assessed further when we get to Brisbane. In the meantime we need to get Alex over here as soon as possible and I am thankful to Stuart Lancaster for letting him go so quickly.”

Regarding the citing, the ARU’s statement read: “British and Irish Lions prop, Cian Healy, has been cited for acts contrary to good sportsmanship against Emirates Western Force scrumhalf, Brett Sheehan, in the opening match of the DHL Australia 2013 Lions Tour.

“Healy has been cited under Law 10.4.m Acts contrary to good sportsmanship, a player may not bite an opponent. The incident occurred in the 17th minute.

“Healy will now appear at a judicial hearing tomorrow, Thursday June 6th, at the Sofitel Hotel in Brisbane.”

Match citing officer, South African Freek Burger, asked Sheehan to provide him with a statement after he made a biting allegation to referee Glen Jackson during the game.

The game was held up while television match official Glenn Newman looked at replays from different angles of any alleged offence, but nothing materialised from that footage.

Healy, who had been widely tipped to win a Lions Test place against Australia later this month, could face a lengthy ban.

The Lions leave Perth for Brisbane on Thursday, where they face the Queensland Reds on Saturday.