O'Sullivan hopeful of Dempsey return for Wales game

Geordan Murphy will start Ireland’s RBS 6 Nations clash against Scotland tomorrow, after Girvan Dempsey was ruled out with a hip injury.

Dempsey took the knock to his left leg in training yesterday and failed a fitness test this morning.

Leicester’s Murphy, who was initially dropped from the side following a poor display in the 26-21 defeat by France, slots straight in at full-back.

There was better news for Brian O’Driscoll, who was given the green light to lead Ireland despite a tight calf.

Coach Eddie O’Sullivan said: “Girvan didn’t make it because of the bruising on his hip. He’s out, so Geordan takes his place.

“We hope he’ll be ready to face Wales in two weeks’ time, because he’s a good healer and he’s always recovered quickly from these type of injuries.”