We Can’t Wait To Get Going – Foley

The Munster squad gathered for training at the University of Limerick earlier today ahead of their European Champions Cup opener away to Sale Sharks on Saturday afternoon.

Denis Hurley (illness), Andrew Conway (neck) and Niall Scannell have all returned to full training this week.

Scannell resumes full training for the first time since injuring his wrist in pre-season and Munster head coach Anthony Foley will welcome the cover at hooker following a string of injuries in the position.

Fellow hooker Duncan Casey (ribs) returned to limited training, while Damien Varley (foot) met with a specialist in London yesterday and the Munster management are awaiting the full medical report.

Johnny Holland and Sean Dougall (both shoulder) continue to make good progress and took part in modified training this afternoon.

Today also saw the squad showcase their new adidas European range (pictured below) and train with the new Gilbert European Champions Cup match balls.

Speaking to media after training, Foley previewed the start of the new European campaign. “I’m certainly looking forward to it. I think everyone gets a bit excited when European games come around. Add to that the new Champions Cup format this year and we can’t wait to get going,” he said.

“We know what’s in front of us against Sale, it’s going to be a big physical game. I know that sounds like a cliché but when you play in Europe against an English team that’s what you get.

“They do have that bit of ‘x factor’ in (Danny) Cipriani – he’s got an ability that most other out-halves don’t have so he will be a threat for us this weekend.

“This weekend represents a step up in competition, expectations, media presence and more. The lads have been made aware of that and are looking forward to the challenge.

“We want to show off our game as much as anything else and try to get people talking about Munster in a positive light.”