Ireland are hoping to continue their Six Nations Grand Slam bid against Wales in 11 days time with a clear bill of health after management said on Tuesday they were optimistic of Tadhg Furlong, Mack Hansen and Joe McCarthy's return from injury.

Ireland say that Tadhg Furlong, Mack Hansen and Joe McCarthy "continue to make good progress" in their returns from injury.

IRELAND SAY THEY are “optimistic” that Tadhg Furlong, Mack Hansen, and Joe McCarthy will be available for selection in the Six Nations clash with Wales on Saturday 22 February. Tighthead prop Furlong has yet to feature in this Six Nations after he suffered a recurrence of his calf injury during their pre-championship training camp in Portugal but his return would be a big boost heading into the closing three rounds.