IRFU squad update indicates why James Ryan may have missed Lions call

The Leinster second row has had a frustrating injury run since the turn of the year.

James Ryan was set to captain Ireland in their summer Tests against Japan and the USA. He may now miss one, if not both, of the games. The IRFU released a short statement on Monday that confirmed Ulster's Michael Lowry was staying in with the squad after he was a late addition to the training camp. It also provided an update on Ryan:

'The Ireland squad reassembled on Sunday evening having completed four days of training at the IRFU High Performance Centre in Dublin before dispersing on Saturday afternoon. 'James Ryan has an adductor issue and will be monitored across the week to determine his availability for the Japan game. Ulster’s Michael Lowry will continue to train with the Ireland squad this week.'

The adductor [hip] issue with Ryan strongly indicates why he missed out on a late call-up to the British & Irish Lions squad after captain Alun Wyn Jones dislocated his shoulder. Lions head coach Warren Gatland called up Wales lock Adam Beard and flanker Josh Navidi [for Justin Tipuric] after the injury-hit win over Japan. Both of those calls, and Conor Murray being named as Lions tour captain were discussed on House of Rugby by Alex Goode, Sean O'Brien and Jack Willis [LISTEN from 2:00 below] on the latest episode. Many Irish supporters had felt James Ryan would be next in line if there was an injury in the Lions' second row ranks. Scottish supporters would have felt Jonny Gray would stand a strong chance, but it was Beard that got the shout. With three Lions already out injured before the squad touched down in South Africa, it is possible that Ryan, Gray and others could yet be called up to tour in the coming weeks. For now, the Leinster lock will be concentrating on trying to get back fit to help Ireland in any way he can.

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