Ireland full-back Hugo Keenan has been forced to leave the national team’s Six Nations training camp in Portugalafter fracturing his thumb. The 29-year-old, who has become Ireland’s first-choice full-back in recent seasons, had been hoping to return during the championship after a hip injury kept him out since the British and Irish Lions tour last summer.
Ireland are preparing for their Six Nations opener against France in Paris on 5 February, followed by a home match against Italy on 14 February, but head coach Andy Farrell has yet to name a replacement for Keenan. Jamie Osborne and Mack Hansen filled in during the autumn series, though both are currently dealing with injuries, while Jacob Stockdale, Ciaran Frawley and fly-halves Sam Prendergast or Jack Crowley are possible options.
Keenan’s injury is the latest setback for Ireland, following news that Bundee Aki did not travel to camp due to a disciplinary issue. Prop Jack Boyle and Tom Ahern have also withdrawn from the squad, with Cormac Izchukwu, Jude Postlethwaite and Billy Bohan called up as replacements.
