The Latest On Andrew Trimble’s Fitness As He Once Again Misses Out On The Ireland Squad

“He’s so close.”

Andrew Trimble was once again absent from Joe Schmidt’s Ireland team when he named his squad to take on Italy on Saturday this afternoon. The Ulster winger missed the opening round defeat to Scotland after picking up a groin injury in training in the build-up.

It was widely expected he would at least be fit enough to take a spot on the bench this weekend, but once again misses out, with Keith Earls retaining his spot on the right win and Craig Gilroy coming in to replace Tommy Bowe on the replacements bench.

Schmidt has revealed however that he is very close to fitness, but they don’t want to rush him back as they’ve seen what happens with players when that’s done.

The Ulster winger should be available in time for the French game at the Aviva, thanks to next week’s Six Nations break.