In Pics: Leinster Press Conference

Pictured above: Leinster coach Michael Cheika at Wednesday’s press conference at the RDS. Cheika has included Gordon D’Arcy and Shane Horgan, fresh from Ireland’s 43-12 victory over Romania last week, and Argentina’s Felipe Contepomi, who also had a busy November on Test duty, in his extended squad for the Connacht game. The Australian said: “All the players are keen to get back playing and we’re all looking forward to the Connacht game.

“The lads (D’Arcy and Horgan) haven’t had any time off recently but I don’t think at this stage it’s really an issue. Most of the internationals came back late this season, so they haven’t really played that many games.”

“Starting on Saturday, this is the next step in our progression. We don’t flog the players in training in the build-up to games because we want them in peak physical condition. I’m a big believer in having consistency in body and mind, week-by-week. In that regard, we’re on top of where we need to be,” added Cheika.

(L-R): Bryce Williams, Michael Cheika and Robert Kearney facing the press at the RDS.

Leinster winger Robert Kearney, 19, taking part in a radio interview. The former Ireland Schools and Under-19 captain has so far scored three tries in seven games in his Celtic League debut season.

Bryce Williams, the former Auckland Blues and Canterbury Crusaders lock, with Leinster coach Michael Cheika. The 25-year-old Williams made his debut for Leinster in the 30-23 Celtic League defeat of Ulster on October 1.

Michael Cheika talking with RTE Radio rugby commentator Michael Corcoran at the RDS. On the province’s current injury worries, Cheika said: “Ciaran Potts picked up another knee injury and misses out (for the Connacht game) while Niall Ronan picked up an injury after playing well (at scrum half) for the ‘A’ team last weekend so we’ll see how it goes.

“We’re also waiting to see how Malcolm (O’Kelly) is, but he should be fine for next week.”

**All photos by Donall Farmer of Inpho Photography**