Season over for Fitzgerald

Luke Fitzgerald will undergo surgery in the coming weeks to address an ongoing neck problem and will not be available for the remainder of the season.

It has been confirmed that the winger will miss the remainder of the season for Leinster and the Ireland summer tour to New Zealand.

Leinster head coach Joe Schmidt admits the timing is unfortunate with Leinster looking to seal a European and PRO12 double in the coming weeks.

"Obviously to lose a player of Luke's pedigree at such a crucial time of the season is a massive blow, not just for the team and our supporters, but also for the player himself," Schmidt said.

"Luke has been in fine form recently and as well as his capabilities on the field, he is a positive and popular presence within the dressing-room.

"Knowing Luke, he will be determined to overcome this setback and aggressively tackle his rehab to regain full fitness and he will continue to benefit from the full support of Leinster Rugby and the IRFU during that timeframe."