Head coach Leo Cullen has given an injury update ahead of Saturday’s trip to Stadio Lanfranchi to face Zebre in the Guinness PRO14 (KO 5.15pm Irish time).
After picking up a foot injury while on international duty, No 8 Jack Conan underwent a procedure last week and will be out of contention for up to six months.
Seán Cronin (neck) will be further assessed this week but will not be available for selection in Italy.
Out-half Ciarán Frawley has made his return to on-field training following an ankle injury and will continue to increase his workload but is similarly unavailable for selection this week.
Ed Byrne returns to training this week following a neck injury and will be continually assessed ahead of Saturday.
There is no new update on Barry Daly and Dan Leavy.
