Kidney considers options

Coach considers front-row choices in absence of Horan

By Rachel Griffiths   Last updated: 7th November 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Kidney considers options

Kidney: Considering options

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Ireland coach Declan Kidney is facing a front row dilemma for the clash against Australia following the loss of Marcus Horan from the squad.

Horan has been ruled out of action until the New Year after undergoing an unspecified "routine medical procedure", with Ireland refusing to divulge any details about the 32-year-old's condition.

Kidney is considering his options following Horan's omission from the 31-man senior squad, with either Ulster's Tom Court or Cian Healy of Leinster likely to appear at loosehead for Ireland's autumn series against Australia, Fiji and South Africa.

Uncapped Healy may have the advantage over Court in the bid to partner John Hayes, who will be available to play again following the completion of his five-week ban for stamping.

Meanwhile, Kidney received more positive news over Horan's Munster colleague Jerry Flannery, who has been included after making encouraging progress in his recovery from a calf injury.

World Cup 2011 Winner Win Outright: Ireland 20/1