Sean aims to shine for Blues
Leinster v Treviso 7.35
SEAN O’BRIEN is back in the Leinster starting team – just one week ahead of the Champions Cup semi-final against Scarlets.
The Ireland back row needed action before the Aviva Stadium showdown and Blues boss Leo Cullen has handed him only his second start of 2018.
Having suffered a hip injury in December, O’brien’s comeback against Scarlets lasted just 27 minutes, a shoulder injury bringing that game to a frustrating end last month.
In total, Leo Cullen has made 11 changes to the side that beat Zebre with Johnny Sexton, Isa Nacewa, Rob Kearney, Garry Ringrose, James Ryan and Scott Fardy given time off.
“Sean has worked incredibly hard to get back so it’s good to see him involved, he’s been a little bit unlucky over the last couple of weeks,” Cullen said.
“He worked hard to get back from his hip injury to play against Scarlets and then got the bang on his shoulder in that game. It took a little bit longer than we all would’ve liked but he’s in good spirits now.”
Cullen was non-committal when asked if O’brien would go straight into the team next week. “We’re very much focused on Treviso at this stage and depending on what happens we can make some assessments for the following week,” he said.
Jack Mcgrath captains the side for the second time while Max Deegan stays at No8 after last week’s man of the match display.joey Carbery makes his first start this season at out-half.