Ireland confirm late call-ups to Autumn squad - Farrell included after Bundee Aki injury concerns

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has made a couple of late adjustments to his squad ahead of their high-profile Gallagher Cup meeting with New Zealand and the upcoming Autumn Nations Series.

Munster centre Tom Farrell and Leinster wing Jimmy O’Brien have both been called up to the national squad, with the pair joining training ahead of Saturday’s test against the All Blacks in Chicago.

It marks a first senior call-up for uncapped centre Farrell, who has been in fine form for Munster early in the United Rugby Championship season. O’Brien, meanwhile, returns to the Ireland setup having last featured upon the international stage during the 2023 Six Nations.

There are, however, several injury concerns within Farrell’s wider squad. Ireland midfielders Bundee Aki (hip) and Robbie Henshaw (groin) are both nursing knocks and will continue to be monitored by the IRFU medical team. The centre duo will still travel with the group to the United States on Tuesday, with their fitness to be assessed later in the week.

Connacht star Mack Hansen has been ruled out after aggravating a foot injury in the closing stages of his side’s United Rugby Championship fixture against the Bulls. The wing had to be carted off the pitch at the Dexcom Stadium with his upcoming absence is a significant blow, given his electric form throughout the Summer for the British & Irish Lions.

Meanwhile, the uncapped Munster forward pair of lock Edwin Edogbo (concussion) and back row Brian Gleeson (elbow), have been ruled out of the trip across the pond. The two had been named as 'injury cover' to Andy Farrell's squad for when they head out 'stateside', yet both Edogbo and Gleeson suffered injuries in Munster's hard fought win over Leinster at Croke Park this past Saturday.

At this stage, there are no further additions to Andy Farrell’s travelling group, as Ireland prepare for a demanding international window that includes Tests against New Zealand, Japan, Australia, and South Africa in the Autumn Nations Series.