Ireland kicking coach Richie Murphy confirmed that Kieran Marmion has been released by Ireland after aggravating an ankle injury.

Connacht Rugby later said he will miss up to three months as he requires surgery to repair the damage.

The injury news comes days after the scrum-half starred in Ireland’s historic victory over the All-Blacks on Saturday.

Speaking with the media today, Murphy said Marmion sustained the injury several weeks ago but continued to play.

“Kieran has been carrying an injury for the last couple of weeks. He’s been fine and able to get through the games no problem. I think it goes back to maybe the Connacht vs Ulster game and then he hurt it again against Argentina,” said Murphy.

“It’s obviously not great for Connacht because he is going to miss out, but we felt it was the right time to get him fixed up and have him ready for what’s coming up in the new year,” he added.

Murphy also confirmed that Ireland will ring in the changes for this weekend’s game against USA after several players were released from the camp.

“There’s going to be changes in the team and it’s a great opportunity for the guys who have been helping us prepare over the last few weeks to play,” he finished.

Connacht are currently in South Africa where they will take on Southern Kings this Sunday before taking on Cheetahs the following weekend.

The 26-year-old will now miss out on Connacht’s Challenge Cup double header against Perpignan, as well as the Leinster, Ulster and Munster Christmas inter-pros.