Connacht’s second Heineken Cup campaign begins in Italy against new franchise Zebre this Saturday evening with centre David McSharry the only fresh injury concern.

McSharry took two heavy belts, one to the shoulder, in last weekend’s comprehensive 25-0 loss to Ulster at Ravenhill but is expected to recover despite not training yesterday.

Scrumhalf is the other injury black spot in the squad for Eric Elwood as Frank Murphy and Paul O’Donohoe are unavailable.

GAVIN CUMMISKEY