Ireland coach Declan Kidney is considering his front row options against Australia after Marcus Horan was ruled out of action until the New Year.
Horan will be unavailable for up to eight weeks after undergoing an unspecified "routine medical procedure".
Fears the 32-year-old's career is over have been dismissed, but Ireland are refusing to reveal any details about his condition.
His absence paves the way for either Tom Court of Ulster or Leinster's Cian Healy to stake their claim at loosehead for the autumn series against Australia, Fiji and South Africa.
Healy will have the edge on Court in the race to partner John Hayes, who is available to play again on Sunday upon completion of his five-week ban for stamping.
Horan's absence forced his omission from the 31-man senior squad named for the opener against Australia a week on Sunday.
Comments
kenny says...
there is no dilemma, healy is strong, fast and mobile and can play on either side of the scrum. Court is good but not that good im afraid.
Posted 14:23 10th November 2009
pogmahon says...
On form he would have been picked ahead of Horan anyway. Not sure how Court is doing this year.
Posted 13:51 09th November 2009
ashley71 says...
about time healy gets his chance...might even do enough to keep his place for the 6 nations!
Posted 12:00 07th November 2009