Sidelined.

Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt addressed the media this afternoon following Saturday’s disappointing defeat to England at Twickenham.

Result aside the Ireland boss provided positive fitness updates on a number of players, including Cian Healy, Johnny Sexton and Conor Murray.

Healy suffered a worrying ankle injury in the first-half but should be ok for the World Cup. The Leinster loosehead is “bullish” and will likely be unavailable for selection this weekend, but should be good to go for next week.

Conor Murray trained fully today and passed all HIA tests but it is unlikely he will play against Wales this weekend. Johnny Sexton meanwhile is “a little bit stiff and sore” with Schmidt criticising reports last week of a leg injury

“He again is very keen to be involved this weekend but we won’t be silly.” Schmidt added.

And finally Keith Earls has suffered a touch of tendonitis that has been niggling him and is a “doubt” for this weekend.

“It’s about playing the long game with Keith. I know he’ll be ready for the weekend after this, I doubt he’ll be ready for this week.” Schmidt said