FOR THE SECOND time in the space of a year, Josh van der Flier is set to defy an initial medical prognosis and return to action ahead of schedule to hand Leinster’s two-pronged title bid a major boost.
The flanker was initially ruled out for the remainder of this season after undergoing surgery on the groin injury he sustained against France during the Six Nations, but van der Flier could now return for Leinster’s Pro14 semi-final against Munster.
Van der Flier speaking to media yesterday. Source: Tommy Dickson/INPHO
Leinster head coach Leo Cullen said the 26-year-old would not feature again this term ‘unless there is some magic cure between now and then’, and van der Flier has again shown remarkable diligence and work-ethic in his recovery.
Saturday’s Heineken Champions Cup final against Saracens will come too soon for the openside but he will be back on the training paddock with the squad this week, with a view to being available for the visit of Munster to the RDS on Saturday 18 May.
Van der Flier’s unexpected return is a welcome fillip for the province, particularly with Dan Leavy ruled out indefinitely due to the horrific leg injury he sustained against Ulster.
“I’ve a good bit of running under my belt now. If training goes well, hopefully, I’ll be available, that’s the goal,” he said.
“I’ve just been hoping to be back training this week, and hopefully that goes well. I’ve been working with Fearghal Kerin and the medical staff at Leinster, they’ve been brilliant.