Fitzgerald likely to return for Aironi clash

With Sunday’s re-scheduled Six Nations clash away to France set to rule out a large number of Ireland players, Leinster at least look likely to be able to call upon Luke Fitzgerald after his return to full training last week.

The Leinster squad trained in UCD on Monday morning as the province gears up for Friday night’s second successive away match in the RaboDirect PRO12 against Aironi in the Stadio Zaffanella (7pm).

Mat Berquist (fractured patella) could also come into contention after missing over five months and the medical team are pleased with the New Zealand out-half’s recent progress after increasing his time on the training field following his long rehabilitation.

Back-row forward Dominic Ryan successfully came through his first start in over three months in Scotland in a game which also saw winger Andrew Conway return to the fray after a three month lay-off.

Ireland back-rower Rhys Ruddock (rested) may also return to the panel for Friday’s game.