O’Callaghan, Horan and Murphy rejoin squad

Following last Saturday’s opening win in the RBS 6 Nations Championship over Italy, 11 additional players have been added to the match 22 that was on duty in Croke Park as the squad prepare for next Saturday’s game against France. Both Stephen Ferris and Donncha O’Callaghan are among those additions as both players continue their rehabilitation from leg and knee injuries that ruled them out of the Italy game, while Marcus Horan is in line to possibly make a comeback to the first team after his serious injury last year.

On other injury news, Paul O’Connell came off during the Italy game after receiving a blow above the left eye in the second half but is expected to resume training this week. Andrew Trimble also came off in the second half with a tight hamstring and while he is a concern ahead of selection for the France game, he will be monitored over the next 24 hours to see how he recovers. Ronan O’Gara received a blow to his right knee and was withdrawn as a precaution and will also be monitored over the next 24 hours.

Johne Murphy, the Munster new boy in waiting, has been called up to the side while none of the players have been ruled out of selection at this point for the team to play France which will be announced on Tuesday.

Players added to the Irish squad;

Tony Buckley

Gavin Duffy

Stephen Ferris

Chris Henry

Marcus Horan

Denis Hurley

Shane Jennings

Johne Murphy (pictured)

Donncha O’Callaghan

Jonathan Sexton

Dan Tuohy