Warren Gatland Issues Updates On Jack McGrath & Sean O’Brien’s Fitness

by Will Matthews · May 22, 2017

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Nothing to worry about lads.

Lions head coach Warren Gatland has allayed fitness concerns surrounding Sean O’Brien and Jack McGrath, insisting the pair are fully fit for the forthcoming tour of New Zealand.

O’Brien missed Leinster’s loss to Scarlets on Friday after being a late withdrawal due to a calf problem. The back-row was scheduled to be on the bench, but Leinster decided not to risk the Lions star.

Jack McGrath underwent an X-ray on his arm following the RDS defeat after being substituted early on in the game. Gatland has confirmed that both players are okay to travel, admitting that O’Brien was frustrated to miss out on game time last weekend.

A scan on O’Brien’s hamstring came back clear and is ready for action. Gatland today also interestingly said that he now sees CJ Stander primarily as a number 8 after losing Saracens star Billy Vunipola to injury. He does however say his versatility in the back-row will be a major asset.