Munster update as Bleyendaal and Williams ruled out for remainder of season

The squad gathered in UL today as preparations commenced for Saturday’s Guinness PRO14 clash against Scarlets in Thomond Park (5.30pm).

While Peter O’Mahony, CJ Stander, Conor Murray and Keith Earls all played a huge role in securing the Grand Slam in Twickenham on Saturday, Earls became the latest injury concern as he hobbled off after 73 minutes with a knee injury. The Limerick-man will undergo a scan and require specialist assessment to determine the full extent of the injury.

Head Coach Johann van Graan has been dealt a further blow with the news that Tyler Bleyendaal and Duncan Williams have both been ruled out for the remainder of the season. Bleyendaal required surgery in a bid to rectify ongoing symptoms with his neck, while Williams underwent surgery after sustaining facial injuries during a training session last week.

Following Friday night’s defeat against Edinburgh in Murrayfield, Simon Zebo (hamstring) and Alex Wootton (hip flexor) will be reviewed by the medical department today, while Jean Kleyn is following return to play protocols after sustaining a concussion.

Niall Scannell returns to full training this week as he recovers from a rib injury sustained against Glasgow Warriors at the end of February.

Continuing to rehab: Andrew Conway (knee), Chris Cloete (arm), Jaco Taute (knee), Chris Farrell (knee).

Next home game

Guinness PRO14: Munster v Scarlets, Thomond Park, Sat 24 March, 5.30pm; Tickets available online, from the Munster Rugby Ticket Offices at Thomond Park and Irish Independent Park, or by calling 061 421103. Tickets from just €7 (Student & Junior) with Family packs (two adults and two children) available for just €40.