Shannon's Michael Galwey has been called into the Ireland squad for next Saturday's opening Five Nations Championship match against France at Lansdowne Road. The former Lion replaces Malcolm O'Kelly who dislocated his shoulder and damaged ligaments while playing for London Irish against Northampton on Saturday.
O'Kelly is likely to be sidelined for a minimum of six weeks and his absence is a significant setback to Irish coach Warren Gatland's plans, despite the presence of a quality replacement in Jeremy Davidson. There is also concern regarding Andy Ward's knee, an injury sustained in the European Cup final. Trevor Brennan would come into the senior squad should the need arise.
Galwey was due to play in the A match at Donnybrook on Friday but his place goes to Ulster second row Mark Blair, a fitting reward for a player who has produced several immense performances for his province. Lansdowne prop Reggie Corrigan will fill the vacancy left at loose-head, thereby dropping down from the senior squad.
Ulster centre Jan Cunningham, due to be on the replacements bench on Friday, had withdraw because of a cracked cheekbone sustained in the European Cup final. The vacancies left by Blair and Cunningham on the bench will be filled after tomorrow's Irish squad session.
Emile N'Tamack is doubtful for the Lansdowne Road game after damaging a knee in France's 4924 victory over Italy in Genoa. He will attend tomorrow' squad session in Toulouse, where he will undergo a series of tests.
