The notable absentee is John Hayes who injured a calf muscle in Munster's last outing (v Treviso) and although back in training he will be given a further week to work on his recovery.

Gaffney will finalise his starting line up tomorrow (Thursday) when his squad assemble for the first time this week in Limerick.

Munster Squad to Face Connacht: S Payne, J Staunton, M Lawler, J Kelly, A Horgan, M Mullins, J Holland, R Henderson, R O'Gara, E Reddan, P Stringer, M Horan, S Kerr, G McIlwham, J Blaney, F Sheahan, D O'Callaghan, P O'Connell, D Pusey, J Williams, A Foley, D Wallace, S Keogh.

Munster v Connacht - Celtic League Dubarry Park, Athlone Friday, January 2nd at 7 pm.