Two major Leinster players return as 'new' recruit steps up rehab

Leinster have been handed an early-season boost ahead of their URC opener in South Africa against the Lions, with two senior Ireland internationals returning to full training.

A Leinster statement confirmed on Monday that loosehead prop Andrew Porter and outside back Tommy O’Brien have both returned to full training ahead of Saturday’s clash with the Lions at Ellis Park.

Porter’s return comes after a calf issue sidelined the 150-cap Ireland international, while O’Brien has overcome a groin complaint in time to put himself back into selection contention.

Leo Cullen’s defending URC champions face back-to-back away fixtures against the Lions and Sharks in South Africa.

In a secondary dose of good news, new signing Joey Carbery took another significant step in his recovery from a serious knee injury.

The former Munster and Ireland playmaker, who rejoined Leinster during the off-season from Bordeaux, will increase his training involvement this week as he continues his recovery from the ACL injury that has delayed the start of his second spell at the province.

While Saturday’s opener is expected to come too soon, the latest update suggests the 30-year-old is edging closer to a competitive return after being included in the 41-man squad that travelled to South Africa.

Carbery will be eager to make a case for the coveted Leinster 10 jersey.

With Sam Prendergast expected to shoulder much of the responsibility in the No.10 jersey and Harry Byrne the other recognised senior option, Carbery’s eventual availability would provide Cullen with an experienced playmaker capable of challenging for game time.

Otherwise, Leinster’s injury list remains relatively light ahead of the new season.

Jamison Gibson-Park is unavailable due to a minor groin injury, while Cormac Foley (calf), Jordan Larmour (calf), Diarmuid Mangan (foot) and James Culhane (hamstring) also remain sidelined.

There were no fresh updates on long-term injury concerns Jack Boyle, RG Snyman, Caelan Doris or Paddy McCarthy.

Cullen named a 41-man travelling squad for the opening rounds of the URC, which includes nine academy players and returning recruits Carbery and Peter Dooley.