Staunton is suffering from a stomach muscle complaint which manifested itself earlier in the week. Staunton had been originally passed fit but after further compliant withdrew from the side prior to the captains run at Thomond Park yesterday. Dominic Crotty will take over at full back with John O’Neill drafted onto the bench. Thomomd Park will be a sell-out for the clash with Perpignan as Munster strive to keep alive their Heineken Cup challenge.

The Munster side assembled in Thomond Park yesterday evening for the traditional captains run and then withdrew to the team hotel. Alan Gaffney " Of course it's a huge disappointment to lose Jeremy but we have to deal with it and we will. Dominic (Crotty) is an excellent replaceemnt so there's no worry there. Mind you, with the injury situation the way it is, we are looking a little thin in the cover department as far as the backs go but we'll just have to get on with it."

Munster Team:

D Crotty; J Kelly, M Mullins, J Holland, M Lawlor; R O'Gara, P Stringer; M Horan, F Sheahan, J Hayes, M Galwey, M O'Driscoll, J Williams (Capt), A Quinlan, A Foley.

Replacements: J Blaney, S Kerr, E Halvey, D Leamy, M Prendergast, J O'Neill, K Keane.