It remains unclear if Jamie Heaslip will be fit for Saturday's Six Nations opener with Italy in Rome.

The Leinster back-row is carrying a shoulder injury sustained against Ulster on January 3rd and could be rested.

The 31-year-old could be replaced by Peter O'Mahony at No 8 with the returning Sean O'Brien possibly lining out at blindside flanker.

Ireland coach Joe Schmidt names his team for the important match tomorrow.