Positive injury news for Connacht

Johnny O’Connor is one of several Connacht players who have recovered from injury in time to stake a claim for a place in Eric Elwood’s starting XV for Saturday’s Heineken Cup game against Harlequins at the Twickenham Stoop (1.35pm).

O’Connor, who missed last weekend’s victory over Newport Gwent Dragons due to an injury sustained against Leinster will be competing with the likes of Eoin McKeon and Eoghan Grace for the number 7 jersey this week.

Kieran Marmion (dead leg), Dave McSharry (knocks) and Michael Swift (knocks) sat out yesterday’s training session, but they all returned to training today and will be available for selection at the weekend.

Versatile forward George Naoupu was stretchered off against the Dragons with a minor neck injury after scoring a first half try.

Naoupu has since been cleared by medics and will continue to be monitored ahead of Friday’s team selection.