Not good.

Munster look set to be without star man Conor Murray for the opening stages of the coming season as he recovers from a troublesome neck problem.

The southern province were hopeful he would return in time for round three or four of the PRO14, but The42 are reporting he could be out even longer. Murray may even miss Munster’s opening two Champions Cup fixtures in October.

Murray has apparently been dealing with neck issues for quite some time, with the province deciding now is the time to permanently resolve the problem. Whether or not he needs surgery is unclear.

The report also states Munster have identified a number of possible short-term signings in South Africa and Australia to provide cover for Duncan Williams, James Hart and Neil Cronin.

UPDATE: Munster Rugby and the IRFU have confirmed the short-term signing of New Zealand scrumhalf Alby Mathewson as cover for Murray.