Kidney has little cause for concern

Ireland coach Declan Kidney has no fresh injury concerns ahead of this weekend’s trip to Rome. There are slight doubts over Rob Kearney and Paddy Wallace but both are expected to be available for selection when the team is named on Wednesday.

The 22 players involved in Saturday’s thrilling win over France reassembled in Dublin this evening and were joined by Girvan Dempsey, Keith Earls, Shane Horgan, Mick O’Driscoll, Alan Quinlan and Bernard Jackman.

Kearney suffered no adverse reaction to the ankle injury that had threatened his participation at Croke Park but will be assessed by the medical staff while Wallace required stitches to a cut above his eye.

“Both Wallace and Kearney are being monitored and neither has been ruled out of contention at this point for a place in the team against Italy,” an IRFU statement explained.

Jerry Flannery, who’s shoulder problem was described as a stinger, will also be at Kidney’s disposal.

Meanwhile, spectators who bought ref radio units on Saturday are entitled to a refund because the units didn’t function properly.

The broadcast difficulties were outside of the control of the IRFU and Croke Park Stadium and are currently being investigated by the company who provides the Ref Radio units, Redstone Radios.

“In light of these difficulties, Redstone Radios are offering full refunds for any patrons who purchased units at the game,” read today’s IRFU statement.

“Alternatively, patrons may also exchange their units for new ones if they are attending the next Ireland home game in Croke Park against England on February 28th.

“The IRFU would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused to patrons due to the broadcast difficulties that took place on Saturday.

Patrons seeking refunds should contact the IRFU on 0818717117 (national call rate).

Finally, Friday night’s Ireland A game with Scotland has been moved from Donnybrook to the RDS.

Last week’s clash with the England Saxons was called off at the 11th hour due to a frozen pitch and the IRFU hope the RDS surface is in a better position to cope with any further cold snap.