Leinster have only minor injury concerns prior to Saturday's crucial European Cup tie against Leicester at Welford Road. Centre Brian O'Driscoll did not train yesterday because of a toe injury sustained on Monday but that was purely precautionary and coach Mike Ruddock is adamant that the Blackrock player will be available.

Gary Halpin (elbow) and Robert Casey (fluid on the knee) are also undergoing treatment but neither is causing any concern. Leinster do not train today so the team will be announced tomorrow. The match will be televised live on RTE.

Opponents Leicester are be-deviled by injuries. Martin Johnson (Achilles tendon) and Darren Garforth (neck) are definitely out while Neil Back, who missed the defeat by Stade Francais last weekend because of a bruised hip, is receiving intensive treatment. Leicester's new Irish squad member Geordan Murphy retired with a cut head in the aforementioned game but should be available.

Meanwhile, Stade Francais are facing a hefty fine after playing Manu Samoa winger Brian Lima, who wasn't registered in time, against Leinster. Given that the Irish province won the match, Stade Francais should get away with a fine. A decision will be made by European Rugby Cup Ltd (ERC) prior to Friday night's game against Glasgow Caledonians.

The ERC has confirmed that should all four teams in the group finish on six points then the Pool winner would be the team that has scored most tries over the six matches: Stade Francais would thus be clear favourites.

Peter Stringer's bruised and battered frame is causing Munster most concern in the wake of Saturday's thrilling victory over Saracens. Mike Mullins and Dominic Crotty meanwhile have minor injuries. Coach Declan Kidney expects to name a team today for Saturday's game against Pontypridd at Sardis Road. Mick Galwey, David Wallace and John Hayes, all of whom were doubtful prior to the Saracens game, appear to have suffered no ill effects.

Ulster expect to be able to call upon Tony McWhirter, Allen Clarke and Spencer Bromley, who missed the defeat by Wasps, for Friday night's game against Bourgoin at Ravenhill. Connacht are similarly untroubled by injury as they prepare for Saturday's Shield clash with pool leaders Ebbw Vale at the Sports ground. Both Ulster and Connacht are likely to announce their teams today.