Ulster back-row Bryn Ward has rejoined the Ireland squad, while prop Tadhg Furlong is back in full training ahead of Saturday’s Six Nations clash with Italy (14:10 GMT). Furlong missed last week’s loss to France due to a calf injury, and the IRFU will decide on his availability ahead of Thursday’s team announcement.
Ward, 21 and the son of former Ireland flanker Andy Ward, impressed after joining the Ireland XV panel for the 52-14 defeat to England A. He had also taken part in Ireland’s pre-tournament training camp in Portugal.
Ireland trained at Clongowes Wood College on Monday with no new injury concerns after Thursday’s 36-14 loss to France.
Italy have recalled Toulouse wing Ange Capuozzo, who hasn’t played since December due to a finger injury, but will be missing Juan Ignacio Brex, Martin Page-Relo, Tommaso Allan, Sebastian Negri, Ross Vintcent, Gianmarco Lucchesi, Marco Riccioni, and Edoardo Todaro for various reasons.
