Munster forwards coach Graham Rowntree believes that Joey Carbery is fully fit to play against Ulster at Ravenhill on Friday.
Carbery, who made his return from a long-term ankle injury against Leinster last Saturday, which was his first appearance for the province of the season, looks set to play a big role this Friday. Head coach Johaan van Graan’s hand could be forced somewhat due to the fact that fellow out-half JJ Hanrahan appears to have picked up a hamstring injury, meaning Carbery might start.
Whatever his role may be Rowntree thinks that Carbery will be comfortable to do what is necessary.
“He is fine, as far as I know he is fine. It is good to see him on the field. He is a class operator. It is good to have him back. He is crucial, he got some game time under his belt. Been out for a long time. You can see his frustration. But he has slid straight back in and is training well. As far as I know he will be fine for Friday,” he said.
As well as Carbery it looks as though Dave Kilcoyne, Chris Cloete and Gavin Coombes may be available for the clash.
While their possible returns to the starting line-up is a massive boost to the province, there is a growing injury list which balances the scale.
Back-rower Tommy O’Donnell will undergo a scan on an injury that he picked up during last weekend’s loss, while hooker Kevin O’Byrne is rehabing an ankle injury, and Tadhg Beirne will undergo surgery on an ankle injury later this week, as he remains a long-term absentee.
Lastly, John Ryan could be available for selection soon following an injury which he picked up against Saracens a couple of weeks’ ago as he is set to return to training this week.
Munster will be hoping they can pull-off a big result this weekend when they head to Ravenhill to take on an Ulster team that have been incredibly impressive this season to date, with the southern men looking to stay at the top of Conference B of the PRO14.
