O’Connell out of Ireland Squad

Paul O’Connell has been forced to withdraw from the Ireland squad ahead of Saturday’s Lloyds TSB Six Nations clash with Scotland. O’Connell (pictured) who came through Young Munsters AIB clash with Galwegians unscathed, developed a tooth abscess which requires surgery.

O’Connell will not be replaced as there are three other locks in the squad and as expected the Senior squad has been cut to 22 with Tyrone Howe and Mike Mullins moving to the A squad which leaves John Kelly in line for a first cap. The final vacancy in the A squad has been filled by Donnacha O’Callaghan.

Both Ireland Senior and A sides will be announced tomorrow at the Glenview Hotel (12.30pm approx) following an open training session from 11.30-12.10pm approx. at Greystones RFC.