Back in action.

Ireland fullback Rob Kearney is set to make his long awaited return to action this week as Leinster take on Gloucester in a pre-season fixture.

Kearney hasn’t played for the province since January, and is set to be named in their side to take on the Cherry and Whites on Friday night. The last time he pulled on a Leinster jersey was against Castres in the pool stages of the Champions Cup.

The veteran picked up a bicep injury while on international duty in Ireland’s Six Nations win over on Italy and was forced to get surgery on that as well as his knee.

“There’s a good chance he’ll be available this weekend,” said head coach Leo Cullen.

His brother Dave may also make his return in the same fixture, while Jamie Heaslip is still another few weeks away before making his return.