O’Leary in line for Munster recall

MUNSTER received a major boost last night with confirmation that Tomás O’Leary could be available for Friday night’s Magners League clash with Newport Gwent Dragons.

O’Leary’s recovery from a thumb injury that sidelined him for over six weeks comes at an opportune time given the non-availability of Peter Stringer (on international duty) and the injury suffered by Duncan Williams in the victory over Llanelli Scarlets on Sunday night.

Williams, one of the heroes of Munster’s thrilling win over Australia a week ago, suffered an ankle injury with fears that he is facing a four week layoff.

Meanwhile, Paul O’Connell could make his long awaited comeback from a groin injury in Young Munster’s AIL clash with Shannon on Friday night at Thomond Park (7.30).

The Munster skipper hasn’t played since March due to complications for the injury but has returned to training with the province in recent weeks with coach Tony McGahan predicting O’Connell would be available for selection before Christmas.

Sources within the Young Munster club suggest his appearance for the club this weekend is only possible rather than probable, and one observer made a telling point: “Paul isn’t going to risk making a return too soon, he has been out long enough and the timing has to be perfect because he’s such a perfectionist.”

Meanwhile, it was confirmed last night that Ireland will play England at Aviva Stadium next August as part of their World Cup warm-up programme. Ireland have four friendly fixtures planned for August in the build-up to the September tournament.

Ireland will face Scotland at Murrayfield on August 6, France twice, on August 13 and August 20, then England at the Aviva Stadium on August 27.

Ireland’s first pool match is against Eddie O’Sullivan’s US Eagles at Yarrow Stadium in New Zealand on Sunday, September 11, 2011.

England’s Rugby Football Union yesterday confirmed they will play three warm-up games next summer ahead of the World Cup in New Zealand.

Martin Johnson’s side will face Wales at Twickenham on August 6 before travelling to the Millennium Stadium for a return fixture seven days later.

They will then face Ireland before departing for New Zealand the following week.

Team manager Johnson said: “These three games are an important element in our build-up to Rugby World Cup 2011.

“We’re looking forward to playing both Wales home and away and Ireland as part of our preparation, and they should be excellent contests.”