Tomas O'Leary (lower back) sees a specialist later this week when an indication of a return to training may be forthcoming.

Ian Nagle (shoulder) and Darragh Hurley (achilles) have both resumed training and are expected to be in contention for inclusion in the squad for the trip to Cardiff Friday week, but Peter Borlase (achilles) is looking at a five week rehab period.

Troy Smith undergoes surgery tomorrow to repair the damage to his cruciate and Felix Jones who saw a specialist last Friday is unlikely to be back before Christmas.