Superb fitness boost for Ireland ahead of Six Nations

Many of us feared the worst when we heard 'Ultan Dillane' and 'ankle ligaments' mentioned last week.

The Connacht and Ireland lock went in to see a surgeon in the middle of last week - ruling him out of his province's upcoming league and Champions Cup fixtures. Pat Lam told reporters that Dillane was expected to miss 'four to five weeks' but added the caveat that surgery, if required, could have extended his time on the sidelines. The 23-year-old was one of Connacht's key players in their 2015/16 PRO12 league win and played eight times for Ireland, including twice against the All Blacks. 4-5 weeks out would have ruled him out of Ireland's Six Nations opener against Scotland and put him in the doubtful bracket for the next game against Italy. Lam faced the media at The Sportsground this afternoon, ahead of this weekend's must-win Champions Cup tie with Zebre, and had a positive update on Dillane. No surgery is required so he is set to be out for a maximum of four weeks. At a push, and with rehab going well, Dillane could be back within three weeks. It would be a stretch to consider him for the away tie with Toulouse but he may be able to get in a league game to convince the Irish management of his fitness.