MUNSTER captain Paul O’Connell will be pushed to make the opening Heineken Cup fixture against Wasps next week as he struggles with a disc injury in his back.

BARRY MURPHY, a revelation for Munster last year, is ready to return to Heineken Cup action.

Munster 36 Edinburgh 15

TOMÁS O'LEARY has been ruled out of the Munster team for tonight's Celtic League clash with Edinburgh Gunners at Thomond Park.

SHANNON pair Stephen Keogh and Ian Dowling are poised to come into Munster’s starting line-up for tomorrow night’s Celtic League clash with Edinburgh Gunners at Murrayfield (7.30, Setanta Sports).

Munster 17 Edinburgh 28

SCOTLAND COACH Matt Williams has admitted that in an ideal world he would not throw three uncapped players into the firing line against Wales – but insists he has no option.

JONNY BELL is the latest Ulster casualty prior to Friday’s Celtic League game against Llanelli at Ravenhill.

JEREMY STAUNTON will be encouraged to make use of his pace in the wide, open spaces of Musgrave Park on Friday night.