Furlong, Gibson-Park and Healy ruled out of Ireland's clash with France

Skipper Johnny Sexton will complete the HIA process later on Monday.

Ireland’s Cian Healy and Tadhg Furlong chat during the warm-up in Cardiff.  Picture: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Andy Farrell’s hopes of nursing his wounded frontliners back to fitness for Saturday’s Guinness Six Nations clash with France have been dashed but the Ireland boss will have added another layer of confidence in the players that took their place in Wales last weekend.

SIX NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP

Your home for the latest news, views and analysis of this year's Six Nations Championship from our award winning sports team.

SIX NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP

Your home for the latest news, views and analysis of this year's Six Nations Championship from our award winning sports team.