Scrum-half injuries give Joe Schmidt some cause for concern

Joe Schmidt is facing a nervous few weeks over his scrum-half options with Luke McGrath exiting Leinster's win against Toulouse and John Cooney failing to start Ulster's meeting with Racing 92 on Saturday afternoon.

With Kieran Marmion currently sidelined, it leaves the Ireland head coach with one fit, established number nine and, as good as Conor Murray is, even he needs back-up. Not ideal for Schmidt who is expected to name his Six Nations squad next week.