Ireland prop Cian Healy received the all clear on Monday following neck surgery to compete in the upcoming rugby union World Cup.

Healy has battled neck problems since May, but has recovered just in time and will be available for Saturday's Pool D opener against Canada.

Scrum-half Conor Murray has been passed fit after concussion, with Rob Kearney also over knee problems for the Cardiff clash with Canada.

"The 31-man squad are all fit and available for selection against Canada for Saturday," said Ireland team co-ordinator Mick Kearney.

"Cian's great, obviously Cian had a few dark days across the summer but towards the end of August he made fantastic progress.

"He's been in full training for the last two weeks and I'm delighted to report that he is available for selection at the weekend against Canada.

"I think the fact that he is available and is fit I think it's a huge boost to everyone in the squad and a huge boost to Cian as well."

Healy's presence will provide a clear advantage for Ireland in their target of reaching a first-ever World Cup semi-final.

Hooker Rory Best hailed 27-year-old Healy's return as head coach Joe Schmidt's squad a sizeable lift, off the back of consecutive warm-up defeats to Wales and England.
Source: AFP