Sean O’Brien’s return from injury most certainly did not go to plan.
For Leinster’s Guinness PRO14 clash against Scarlets, the returning Sean O’Brien was handed the captain’s armband.
The ‘Tullow Tank’ had been sorely missed by his province and his country after he suffered a hip injury late last year. After three months of rehab and recovery, which included going under the knife, O’Brien made his return in the Blue jersey. He had not played for his province since their Champions Cup victory against Exeter in December.
Just 26 minutes into the game, he was taken off. Max Deegan came on in his place.
Replacement: @MaxDeegan on for Seán O'Brien #SCAvLEI (0-0)
— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) March 9, 2018
The sight of O’Brien heading off holding his arm was a worrying one for fans and Joe Schmidt. Had his return gone well, O’Brien was in with a chance of playing some part in the potential Six Nations decider against England on St Patrick’s Day.
Unfortunately, the shoulder injury that ended his night early has folks fearing his season may be over.
At Parc y Scarlets where Sean O'Brien's return from injury has lasted just 27 minutes. Initial word from @leinsterrugby is that flanker has a shoulder problem. Worrying for Ireland boss Joe Schmidt.
— Alex Bywater (@_AlexBywater) March 9, 2018
