By Ed Elliot, PA
Leinster forward Jack Conan has been added to Ireland’s Guinness Six Nations squad ahead of Sunday’s clash with France, the Irish Rugby Football Union has announced.
The 28-year-old, who has earned 17 Test caps but not played since the 2019 World Cup, strengthens Andy Farrell’s back-row options after Peter O’Mahony was sent off in Sunday’s loss to Wales.
Flanker O’Mahony was dismissed for a reckless shoulder-led hit to the head of Wales prop Tomas Francis and will discover his fate at a disciplinary hearing on Tuesday afternoon.
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Jack Conan has been called into the Ireland squad ahead of Sunday's #GuinnessSixNations clash against France ⤵️#ShoulderToShoulder #IrishRugby #IREvFRA
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) February 9, 2021
Uncapped Munster back row Gavin Coombes has been released from Farrell’s squad to return to training with his province.
Prop Ed Byrne, who provided additional front-row cover for the trip to Cardiff, has remained with the national team, as has his uncapped Leinster team-mate Ryan Baird.
Ireland captain Johnny Sexton and lock James Ryan will go through return to play protocols after suffering head knocks during the 21-16 loss at the Principality Stadium.
