Jordie Barrett could make debut for Leinster in Champions Cup opener
Michael Bolton
Leinster head coach Leo Cullen says new signing Jordie Barrett could makes his debut for Leinster in the Champions Cup opener against the Bristol Bears.
The New Zealand centre has joined Leinster on a contract until the end of the season, but is currently recovering from an injury he suffered for New Zealand.
Cullen expects the 27-year-old to be in camp this week with a view to having him available for their first European tie on Sunday week at Ashton Gate Stadium.
However, Friday's game against Ulster may come too soon for the All Blacks centre.
"He was ruled out at the weekend and thankfully it's not serious, again, we just need to get some eyes on him and make a call as to when he gets up and running fully.
"I think there is a chance, there's definitely a chance [he'll play against Bristol].
”I'm not 100%, but that would be the hope, he'd be up and running pretty much straight away."
As the URC returns, it is six wins from six for Leinster, as they sit top of the table.
As Ireland finish their 2024 against Australia on Saturday, Leinster will also be boosted by the return of Lee Barron, Jack Conan, Jimmy O'Brien, John McKee and Jordan Larmour from injury.
The November internationals have been a huge positive for Leinster, with Sam Prendergast, Tom Clarkson and Gus McCarthy impressing on their debuts.
Cullen says this will be positive for Leinster going forward, as players see the reward for their performances.
"In November with the internationals it is great. A squad gets picked, and you are watching from the outside and see how everyone goes.
"To have three more Irish internationals returning here next week, and everyone has that bit more experience of coming up against the best teams in the world, it is really positive.
"When we get together again, it is fantastic for our group. Even for the young guys here, for them to understand that is how close it is for them,
"You think back to pre-season, everyone is jossiling for positions at the beginning of pre-season. Gus will be a good example, fighting it out with two other senior hookers, Gus gets the nod in round one, and he kicks on from there."