Back injury rules Horan out

Marcus Horan (Munster/Shannon) has been ruled out of consideration for Ireland’s RBS Six Nations championship game against France in Paris on February 14 because of a back injury.

Stand-by prop forwards Simon Best, who sustained a rib injury at the weekend, and Justin Fitzpatrick have joined the squad today. A decision on Horan’s replacement will be made when the team is announced tomorrow.

The team to play France will be announced on Tuesday at the Banqueting and Leisure Centre, City West Hotel at around 12.45pm.