Irish Squad News

Ulster fly-half David Humphreys returned to training with the Ireland squad in Dublin this week, ending fears over his facial injury.

The 35-strong Irish panel continued their pre-6 Nations training camp with a more rigorous workout. Humphreys, 33, took part in the session on Tuesday, following worries over the cheekbone knock he picked up in Ulster’s Heineken Cup loss in Cardiff on Sunday. It has turned out to be nothing more than bruising.

Humphreys’ fly-half colleague Ronan O’Gara – who missed Munster’s Heineken Cup win against NEC Harlequins on Saturday due to a broken finger – also took part in each of the sessions this week.

O’Gara’s protective cast on his hand should be removed this week, allowing him to prepare fully for the opening RBS 6 Nations match, away to Italy on Sunday, February 6th (kick-off 2.30pm).

Following the morning session on Tuesday, the Ulster players in the squad were released to return to their province to prepare for this weekend’s Celtic League match against leaders, the Neath-Swansea Ospreys on Friday.

The other players remained for training on Wednesday and returned to their provinces and clubs yesterday.

Eddie O’Sullivan’s panel will again come together on Sunday, January 23rd and train until Wednesday, January 26th when the 22-man squad for the Italian game will be announced.