James Ryan © Gallo Images
Grand Slam-chasing Ireland have recalled 'world class' Hugo Keenan for Saturday's Six Nations match against England at Twickenham, but will be without lock James Ryan for the remainder of the tournament.
The only change to Andy Farrell's starting line-up after overcoming a knee problem that forced him to miss the 31-7 win over Wales was a fit full-back, Keenan, who was replaced by Ciaran Frawley. Thing.
Lock Ryan, who was reduced to a peripheral role during the Championship, suffered an “unusual” bicep injury during Wednesday's training and will miss next week's final against Scotland as well as the trip to Twickenham. I had to miss the match.
Head coach Farrell said of Keenan's return: “I think it will be a boost for any team in world rugby.” “He's a world-class full-back.
“This is a testament to him and it's no shock to us that he was able to get back into a position to play this weekend. He has worked incredibly hard over the last few weeks to make that happen. Because I have done it.”
Ulster second-rower Ian Henderson recovered from a dislocated toe and replaced Ryan on the bench.
Ryan was a strong candidate to replace Johnny Sexton as Ireland captain after the World Cup, but the rise of Leinster team-mate Joe McCarthy meant he was limited to just one start in this competition.
Prop Finlay Bealham and versatile Frawley replaced Henderson, with Oli Jaeger suffering from a knee problem and center Stuart McCloskey missing Game 23.
Garry Ringrose is recovering from a shoulder injury but will have to wait until he makes his first international appearance since the World Cup, as the midfield pair of Robbie Henshaw and Bundy Aki remain in excellent form.
Reigning champions Ireland, who are aiming for back-to-back Grand Slam titles with bonus point wins over France, Italy and Wales, could retain their title with one match to spare if they win in London.
Steve Borthwick's England, who reached the semi-finals of last year's World Cup, have faced harsh criticism for their underwhelming performance, including wins over Italy and Wales before losing to Scotland.
Brit Farrell is preparing for a “hell of a fight” against an “incredibly dangerous” opponent as he looks to counter his loss to Scotland in the Calcutta Cup.
He said of England: “We're not engaging in criticism at all.”
“I look at the way the individuals are playing, the coaching staff they've got, the plan they have, and a great team that's ready to give it their all this weekend.
“That makes them incredibly dangerous. We just have to prepare them to be at their best, but it's going to be a hell of a fight.
“If they are at their best, you would expect them to be as difficult to beat as anyone in world rugby.”
Team (15-1): Hugo Keenan. Calvin Nash, Robbie Henshaw, Bundy Aki, James Lowe. Jack Crowley, Jamison Gibson Park. Caelan Doris, Josh van der Flier, Peter O'Mahony (Capt.). Tadhg Beirne, Joe McCarthy.Tadhg Furlong, Dan Sheehan, Andrew Porter
replacement: Ronan Kelleher, Cian Healy, Finlay Bealham, Ian Henderson, Ryan Baird, Jack Conan, Conor Murray, Ciaran Frawley
coach: Andy Farrell (English)
