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The IRFU have confirmed that James Ryan is a doubt for next Saturday's Ireland v Japan game at the Aviva Stadium (kick-off 1pm) due to an abductor issue.
It is understood that the Lions management sounded out Ryan’s availability as a replacement for the stricken Lions captain Alun Wyn Jones but the injury, which Ryan picked up in training last week, ruled him out of consideration.
Ryan had been appointed captain for Ireland’s two match Summer Series - with the USA to follow on Saturday week - but despite this injury the IRFU statement has not ruled out the possibility of him leading the side next Saturday.
“James Ryan has an adductor issue and will be monitored across the week to determine his availability for the Japan game.”
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Ulster's Michael Lowry will continue to train with the Ireland squad this week, bringing to 13 the number of uncapped players in the 37-man squad. With Garry Ringrose ruled out after undergoing a shoulder operation - James Hume was called up in his place - were Ryan ruled out the likelihood is that Peter O'Mahony will captain the side.
The team and replacements will be named on Thursday, and the game will be shown on RTE and Channel 4.
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