Back injury to keep O'Connell sidelined until New Year

Munster have revealed that influential lock Paul O'Connell will not return to action until the New Year as he continues to recover for a back problem.

O'Connell's last involvement with Munster was in the Heineken Cup round 2 game against Edinburgh at Thomond Park Stadium in mid October before taking part in training with the Irish squad during the November internationals.

A statement issued on the official Munster website today said:

“Paul O'Connell is undergoing treatment for a lower back complaint. His treatment is progressing satisfactorily. He will see a specialist for further review in the New Year.”