Stringer worry for Ireland

Ireland scrum-half Peter Stringer is a doubt for the RBS 6 Nations clash with Italy at Lansdowne Road on Saturday week after damaging his right thumb in the win over England.

The Munster number nine had a scan today which showed damage to a tendon and the thumb has been put in plaster.

It will be removed next Tuesday when coach Eddie O’Sullivan is due to name his team.

O’Sullivan remains optimistic about Stringer’s prospects, saying: “The prognosis is good. The plaster is to immobilise the thumb and give it a better chance of recovery. We remain hopeful he will be fit to play.”