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Fitzgerald out of South Africa tour, Schmidt leaning towards Matt Healy as replacement

A KNEE INJURY sustained by Luke Fitzgerald in Saturday’s Pro12 final looks likely to open up an international opportunity for Connacht’s Matt Healy.

Healy capped off another terrific season with a game-breaking performance in the Connacht’s 20 – 10 triumph over Leinster.

The former Lansdowne man is uncapped at Test level, but Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt today admitted he appears to be a natural fit for a like-for-like replacement for Fitzgerald. However, fullback Tiernan O’Halloran is another clear option available.

“The back three were outstanding at the weekend. Between Matt and Tiernan, they had a super game and that immediately put pressure on their opponents.

Contention

“Unfortunately Luke Fitzgerald picked up a knee injury in the game and he will be replaced and one of the Connacht players is right in the frame to be his replacement. We’ve got that information, there are other guys we’re waiting on information for and we’ll firm things up after that.

“Matt would certainly be one of the guys. One of the advantages with him is he’s a left-footed left winger; like for like with Luke Fitzgerald and he’d be certainly a guy who’s in contention.”

“Including some of the combinations that have worked for us and we’d hope would work again.”

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