Leinster Proceed With ‘No Major Injury Concerns’
The Leinster squad stepped up their preparations for next Sunday’s Heineken Cup round 3 clash away to Clermont Auvergne with an on-field session at UCD this afternoon.
There are no major injury concerns for the province arising from last Saturday night’s bonus point victory over Zebre in the RaboDirect PRO12.
Sean O’Brien and Jonathan Sexton were replaced at the interval as a precaution and both Ireland internationals will take a full part in training this week alongside Damian Browne who suffered a cut above his right eye on Saturday.
In addition, Jamie Heaslip and Richardt Strauss, who were both rested following their international exertions in recent weeks, also returned to training today and will be in the frame for Friday’s team announcement.
With his next European appearance, Ireland centre Gordon D’Arcy is in line to become the most-capped Leinster player in Heineken Cup history and pass Shane Horgan’s previous record of 87 caps.
Mike Ross’ next game will be his 75th for Leinster in all competitions. Meanwhile, on a further weekend of milestones, out-half Sexton’s next appearance will be his 100th for his home province.
Since making his debut in the 2005/06 season, the 27-year-old Dubliner has been a key member of the province’s three Heineken Cup winning campaigns and to date he has amassed 873 points in all competitions.
Meanwhile, ticket sales for the round 4 visit of the Clermont Auvergne to the Aviva Stadium on Saturday, December 15 continue to be brisk and the tally has now passed the 42,000 mark. Tickets for this – and all Leinster games – are on sale online here.