Dan Sheehan aims for 2025 comeback after ACL injury

Ireland and Leinster hooker Dan Sheehan is making steady progress in his recovery from a torn ACL and is optimistic about returning to action early in 2025.

The 26-year-old sustained the injury during Ireland’s opening Test loss to South Africa in Pretoria in July.

Sheehan remains cautious about setting a definitive comeback date but is hopeful for a return during the Six Nations window.

“Hopefully into the new year. It might take a month or two, but that’s what I’m sort of aiming at,” Sheehan explained.

“I’ve been conscious not to put a timeframe on it because it would be tempting to rush back. It’s very much a week-to-week thing.”

Acknowledging the mental and physical challenges of recovery, Sheehan credits his physiotherapist, Emma Galvin, for helping him avoid setbacks.

“In terms of the knee, it’s coming along very nicely. Emma Galvin, my physio, has worked her ass off to get me to a good spot. I haven’t had one setback yet, so hopefully in the new year I can get kicking,” he said.

This marks Sheehan’s first major injury since his meteoric rise to prominence in 2021. After earning his Ireland debut in November 2021, Sheehan quickly became the first-choice hooker for both Leinster and Ireland.

He was even nominated for World Rugby’s Breakthrough Player of the Year in 2022.

The injury has provided Sheehan with a rare opportunity to pause and reflect on his whirlwind career.

“I’ve been flat out since I made my debut for Leinster three or four years ago. It’s nice to have a period of time to reflect, analyse the last couple of years, and give the body a bit of a rest,” he noted.

Sheehan has also used his recovery period to engage in charitable activities. Partnering with GOAL, he has contributed to initiatives like Jersey Day and the upcoming GOAL Mile during the Christmas season.

“It’s tricky when you’re playing to do that sort of stuff. It’s nice to throw your hand at stuff like that,” he added.