However, Paul O'Connell has failed in his attempt to be fit to take a part - the squad captain is still troubled by the back problem that forced him to miss the afternoon training session in Limerick on Wednesday.

Munster coach Declan Kidney said: "Paul suffered a setback during the week and is not able to train today so in the circumstances he couldn't be included in the squad."

Anthony Horgan, who was selected to play against Ulster last weekend, picked up a hamstring strain during the week and his absence opens the door for All Black Howlett to take his place on the left wing.

MUNSTER (v Clermont Auvergne): Shaun Payne; Brian Carney, Rua Tipoki, Lifeimi Mafi, Doug Howlett; Ronan O'Gara, Peter Stringer (capt); Marcus Horan, Jerry Flannery, John Hayes, Donncha O'Callaghan, Mick O'Driscoll, Denis Leamy, David Wallace, Anthony Foley.

Replacements: Frankie Sheahan,Tony Buckley, Donnacha Ryan, Alan Quinlan, Tomas O'Leary, Paul Warwick, Kieran Lewis