O'Driscoll's Euro hopes on knife edge

Leading Ireland centre Brian O'Driscoll (pictured) is suffering from a double injury problem and is considered doubtful for the Newport game.

O'Driscoll was the discovery of last season and went on to star for the British Lions in Australia in the summer, establishing himself as the best outside centre in world rugby. But he injured knee ligaments playing for Ireland during their victory over England on Saturday.

He had the knee bandaged and was able to carry on after treatment, but he also aggravated a previous injury.

He further damaged a finger injury, and there are fears he could need it put in a splint or even require a minor operation.

If that is the case O'Driscoll could also miss the return Heineken Cup game at Rodney Parade a week on Friday.

This week's clash between the two unbeaten teams in pool six will be refereed by Scot Rob Dickson, a member of the international panel, and kicks off at 7pm. The match is being shown live on Irish television RTE.

Newport will treat Leinster no differently from any other side they have met in their five-match winning run.

And the club praise those players not in the 22 for contributing to the current run, as well as giving the fans a vote of thanks.

"We've had a hard few weeks, but we'll take it the same way as we have approached those games, and hope to maintain our run," said team manager Jim McCreedy.

"There is a good feeling in the camp, and all the players are playing for one another. "The strength of the squad lies in those not in the 22. They appreciate that with the way the boys are playing it's difficult to leave anybody out.

"Leinster are anticipating a large crowd, and the way the fans have supported us is very much appreciated."

Lynn Howells has returned to Pontypridd as coach after eight years there as assistant and a two-year spell with Cardiff.

He returns to Pontypridd, taking over as coach from Richie Collins.