Squad Update | Keith Earls returns to training while positive news on Antoine Frisch

Munster return to URC action this Saturday as they host Connacht at Thomod Park.

The Munster squad are continuing preparations at the HPC ahead of Saturday night’s URC Interpro derby against Connacht at Thomond Park (7.35pm).

On the injury front, Joey Carbery will complete his return to play protocols with a view to returning to full team training this week.

Antoine Frisch is expected to return to full training this week having undergone a scan on a thigh issue last week.

Liam Coombes (hamstring), Keith Earls (thigh) and Jean Kleyn (ribs) all return to full team training this week.

Dave Kilcoyne (shoulder) will progress with his rehab and his availability will be determined later in the week.

Keynan Knox has a short-term knee injury.

There were seven Munster players in action at the weekend for Ireland, Tonga and the Barbarians.

Tadhg Beirne, Craig Casey, Jack Crowley and Peter O’Mahony helped Ireland to a win over Australia as Crowley made his first international start, kicking a penalty and a conversion.

Beirne was named in the World Rugby Men’s 15s Team of the Year at their awards ceremony in Monaco on Sunday night.

Malakai Fekitoa helped Tonga to a victory over Uruguay.

John Ryan and Kiran McDonald lined out for the Barbarians in their win over Bath at the Rec.

Jeremy Loughman and Calvin Nash were also in Ireland camp and Munster’s full international contingent return to the HPC this week.

Unavailable: Conor Murray (groin), Stephen Archer (ankle), Tom Ahern (shoulder), RG Snyman (knee), Fineen Wycherley (shoulder), Paddy Kelly (head), Jack Daly (knee), Jack O’Sullivan (knee), Andrew Conway (knee).