Ryan back ahead of schedule for Munster

Donnacha Ryan is set to return to action for Munster in tomorrow’s Heineken Cup match against Perpignan.

The second row regular has been out of action with ligament injuries in his knee since October, but has recovered faster than expected to claim his spot this weekend.

With Conor Murray injured, Cathal Sheridan will play scrum-half, while the rest of the back remains unchanged.

Coach Rob Penney has decided to replace Kilcoyne and Archer with James Cronin and BJ Botha in the front row, with the back row the same – with Peter O’Mahony, Sean Sougall, and James Coughlan.

Kick-off is at 3.40pm.

Munster: Felix Jones; Keith Earls, Casey Laulala, James Downey, Johne Murphy; Ian Keatley, Cathal Sheridan; James Cronin, Damien Varley, BJ Botha; Donnacha Ryan, Paul O'Connell; Peter O'MahonyCapt., Sean Dougall, James Coughlan.

Replacements: Duncan Casey, Dave Kilcoyne, Stephen Archer, Donncha O'Callaghan, Tommy O'Donnell, Duncan Williams, JJ Hanrahan, Denis Hurley