Munster’s injured on the mend ahead of Leinster clash

The Munster management received good news ahead of Saturday’s RaboDirect PRO12 interprovincial clash with Leinster (6.30pm) with the injuries picked up in last weekend’s defeat to Ospreys proving less serious than initially feared.

Conor Murray required stitches to a cut above his eye but shortly after he returned to the field it was thought to be in his best interests to replace him with Peter Stringer.

Stringer finished the game but suffered a calf injury and his progress will be monitored but both scrum-halves are expected to be fit for consideration.

The same applies to Marcus Horan who sustained a facial cut playing for Shannon against Young Munster on Friday night.

Paul O'Connell (back), Johne Murphy (knee) and Luke O'Dea (ankle) are all expected to take a full part in training this week.

Ian Nagle (shoulder) returned to training last week but will be given a week or so before being made available for selection.

Cathal Sheridan (hand) and Ivan Dineen (groin) are also looking at a return in the coming weeks.