Bell Withdraws, Wallace Called In

It has been officially confirmed that Johnny Bell has been forced to withdraw from Ireland’s Rugby World Cup Squad because of an Achilles tendon injury. The 36 times capped 29-year-old will be replaced by 24-year-old
uncapped fellow Ulsterman Paddy Wallace.

Bell, who impressed on his return to senior international fare during the southern hemisphere trip this summer has been carrying the injury for some time now. It was hoped that he might recover in time to join the squad when it departs on Monday but this morning he broke down again in training.

Irish coach Eddie O’Sullivan said, “My heart goes out to Johnny Bell. He is naturally devastated at having to pull out of the World Cup at this late stage, but unfortunately his Achilles tendon broke down again today.”