Jamie Heaslip remains major doubt for Leinster’s Champions Cup clash with Castres

The man who is never injured could miss out on European duty this week

Worrying news from the Leinster camp, ahead of the resumption of their European endeavours this weekend with the possibility that Matt O'Connor's side could be down their captain for the clash with Castres. Leo Cullen gave an injury update at Monday's training session, in Donnybrook, and it's not good in relation to Jamie Heaslip, who is struggling with a shoulder injury picked up in the win over Ulster. The forwards coach said: 'As the week goes on, he can start going into a bit of contact and see how that goes, then we can make a call later in the week. We hope he will be available, he’s such a key figure for us, but he’s probably 50/50 for us at this stage.' Leinster issued an update on Tuesday afternoon. It read: 'Jamie trained yesterday and again today and is being monitored closely... A final decision on his participation will not be taken until later in the week but he has trained with the squad as normal.' The province sprinkled in some bad news on versatile back Zane Kirchner. 'Zane suffered what we initially thought was bone bruising to his shin in the game against Ulster. However having reported further discomfort yesterday morning, a further scan revealed a small fracture which will rule him out of action for four weeks.' Cian Healy was also involved today as was Sean O'Brien as they continue their injury recoveries, but it's still no clearer when either player will be making a return to competitive action. There is better news on Shane Jennings who has been cleared to return to action this weekend for the clash at the RDS. H/T to Breakingnews