Leinster near full strength for Clermont challenge

The Leinster medical team report no major injury concerns after Saturday night’s bonus point victory over Zebre ahead of Sunday afternoon's Round 3 Heineken Cup clash away to ASM Clermont Auvergne in Stade Marcel Michelin (4pm local time).

Sean O’Brien and Jonathan Sexton were replaced at the interval as a precaution and both Ireland internationals will take a full part in training this week alongside Damian Browne who suffered a cut above his right eye on Saturday.

In addition, Jamie Heaslip and Richardt Strauss who were both rested following their international exertions in recent weeks also returned to training on Monday and will be in the frame for Friday’s lunchtime team announcement.

With his next European appearance, Ireland centre Gordon D’Arcy is in line to become the most capped Leinster player in Heineken Cup history and pass Shane Horgan’s previously held record of 87 caps.

Mike Ross’ next game will be his 75th for Leinster in all competitions. Meanwhile, on a further weekend of milestones, out-half Sexton’s next appearance will be his 100th for his home province.

Since making his debut in the 2005/06 season, the 27-year-old Dubliner has been a key member of the province’s three Heineken Cup winning campaigns and to date he has amassed 873 points in all competitions.

Clermont are currently top of Pool 5 with a maximum haul of 10 points from two games so far in the Heineken Cup.

They sit third in the French Top14 after losing 30-22 to Toulouse Stade Ernest-Wallon on Saturday.