Mixed news on the injury front for Leinster as squad reassemble for trip to Montpellier

Leinster expect to have captain Johnny Sexton available for selection for their Heineken Champions Cup trip to Montpellier this weekend. The out-half was forced off with a dead leg as Ireland finished their Autumn Nations Cup campaign with a 31-16 home win over Scotland on Saturday, raising concerns he would miss the province’s opening game of the 2020/21 European season.

However Leinster have today confirmed that they expect Sexton to be ready to go for Saturday’s clash at the Altrad Stadium.

And there was further good news for Leinster head coach Leo Cullen with flanker Will Connors passed fit to play having missed Ireland’s win over Scotland as he completed Return to Play Protocols.

Caelan Doris reaction after another MOTM performance | Ireland vs Scotland | Autumn Nations Cup

Caelan Doris reaction after another MOTM performance | Ireland vs Scotland | Autumn Nations Cup

Jimmy O’Brien is also available for selection having recovered from a back problem.

However a number of key players are facing a race against time to be passed fit. Garry Ringrose, who broke his jaw during Ireland’s Six Nations win over Italy, will be further assessed this week, as will wing James Lowe (groin).

James Ryan has entered the Gratuated Return to Play Protocols after being removed for a HIA during the Scotland game, and will be monitored throughout the week.

Prop Ed Byrne has been ruled out with a calf injury, while there was no further update provided on Tadhg Furlong (calf), Tommy O’Brien (ankle), Jack Conan (neck), Max Deegan (knee), Jordan Larmour (shoulder), Vakh Abdaladze (back) or Adam Byrne (hamstring).

Meanwhile, Leinster have confirmed that tighthead prop Ciarán Parker has returned to Jersey Reds after completing a short-term loan deal.