Trio returns to Munster Rugby from Ireland squad ahead of Scarlets URC clash

THREE Munster Rugby players have been released back to the province from the Ireland Six Nations squad ahead of Friday night's crunch URC meeting with the Scarlets in Wales.

Conor Murray, Jeremy Loughman and Oli Jager have all been released from international duty and are available for selection for Friday night's Round 10 clash at Parc y Scarlets, 7.35pm, live TG4, Premier Sports.

Munster Rugby have confirmed that Simon Zebo will not require surgery on his knee injury and is expected to increase his training load and rehab with the medical department this week. There is no timeline on his return yet.

Roman Salanoa (knee), who had surgery at the end of last season, had a surgical procedure yesterday and will begin rehabilitation with the medical department.

Munster Rugby Academy duo Evan O’Connell and Ben O’Connor, who have both impressed for the Ireland U20s over the past fortnight, will train with the squad at the start of the week but are not available for selection.

There is good news for Cian Hurley as he has returned to full team training after a lengthy absence due to an achilles/ankle injury.

Continuing to rehab: Patrick Campbell (shoulder), John Hodnett (finger), Paddy Patterson (knee), Jack O’Donoghue (knee), Dave Kilcoyne (shoulder), Diarmuid Barron (foot), Jean Kleyn (eye/knee), Liam Coombes (shoulder), Roman Salanoa (knee).

In contract news, Colm Hogan has extended his deal at the province until the end of March. The back three player, who has featured for Garryowen FC in the All-Ireland League this season, joined Munster in November and made his first appearance against Crusaders at Páirc Uí Chaoimh.