Kelly back in action with Con

JOHN KELLY returns to competitive rugby this afternoon when he lines out for Cork Constitution in the All-Ireland League Division One tie against Dublin University at College Park (2.30).

The Munster star has struggled to recover from an ankle injury sustained in an Ireland squad session in Dublin on November 8. A fortnight ago he attempted a comeback in a friendly against Sunday’s Well, but now feels the worst is behind him.

“I wasn’t quite sure about my situation a couple of weeks ago. I played for 35 minutes but then felt a bit of pain again, said Kelly.

“I have trained hard in the last seven days and the movement no longer appears to be restricted.”

It comes as a huge relief to Kelly, who has been frustrated by his lengthy absence.

“Originally I thought the bruising on the ankle would keep me out for no more than a fortnight but it was a very slow process. I’m just looking forward to getting back in the thick of the action,” he said.

Kelly will be joined in the Constitution team by Jim Williams, David Pusey and Tom Bowman, in another huge boost for the club who desperately need victories to push themselves back into a challenging position in the AIB League.