Connacht have suffered a blow ahead of the new season after forwards Andrew Browne and Aly Muldowney both picked up injuries on the training field.

Browne sustained a meniscal tear to his knee and is due to see a surgeon today but is looking at 4 - 5 weeks on the sidelines.

Second row Muldowney will also be out of action for up to five weeks with an ankle sprain.

Winger Matt Healy also suffered a small hand fracture during a pre season game and is now looking at a four-week rehab programme before he is available again.