CONNACHT WILL BE without the services of Jack Carty for up to three months after a freak accident while on holidays resulted in the out-half having his spleen removed.

The 23-year-old suffered what the province describe as “an unfortunate accident on a water slide”, an incident that resulted in a ruptured spleen.

The Athlone-native had surgery to remove the spleen and is expected to spend another week in hospital in Dubai with the Westerners saying he will be out for between one and three months.

Carty has made 12 appearances in the Guinness Pro12 for the province this season but is the only worry for Pat Lam who is expected to be able to welcome back Matt Healy and Sean O’Brien as the pair complete their return to play protocols following concussions. 

Jason Harris-Wright has already been cleared to play while prop JP Cooney, who underwent shoulder surgery last October, is also available for selection for this weekend’s game with the Dragons.

Schmidt considering changes as Ireland look to build on solid foundation

‘When you come off the pitch a bit battered and bruised, that’s always a good thing’ — Best