Injury blow for Jerry Flannery
Munster and Ireland face an anxious wait to learn the extent of Jerry Flannery's latest injury.
Flannery made his return to rugby in the recent Heineken Cup match against Toulouse after a number of months in the treatment room. His return lasted 20 minutes as he was forced off the field clutching
the back of his calf after coming on as a substitute.
"It's certainly unfortunate if it is (a recurrence of the injury) because he has worked so hard to get back.
He missed a significant part of last season and this was his first foray back into selection. To be injured in his comeback is devastating for him," said Munster coach Tony McGahan.
This is a negative piece of news for the club because Flannery is a quality player, capable of producing big performances in big games. The club will have to make sure
he doesn't mentally suffer from this news.
A key player
Flannery plays as a hooker, which is one of the most important positions in any team. He is a very big and strong player, which allows him to get stuck into the opposition.
His size also allows him to add extra value to the scrum and pack. This is vital if Munster is trying to scramble up the field for territory or use a scrum as a possible
try scoring opportunity.
Flannery is not a quiet player and he keeps important elements of the team linked together. His vocal presence on the field is key in keeping players calm during big and
nervy games.
The club has to make sure that Flannery doesn't suffer mentally. It can be damaging to the mind of a player when he picks up an injury having just come back into the game.
The club needs to offer the player all of the support and stability possible.
Betting advice
Munster has enough cover in the hooker position to cope without Flannery. Don't change any regular betting patterns with the club because the side has already spent a long
time playing without Flannery. Back Flannery's replacement to do well.
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