Ireland recall Joey Carbery in Six Nations squad ahead of clash against Italy

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has recalled Joey Carbery in the squad for the upcoming Six Nations game against Italy in Rome.

Carbery will provide cover to skipper Johnny Sexton, who is currently recovering from a leg injury that he sustained in last round clash against France.

If Sexton does not recover in time, Ross Byrne, who was on the bench in the previous game is likely to be slotted at number 10.

Meanwhile, Cian Healy and Dan Sheehan are included in the squad after making recovery from hamstring injuries.

Jamison Gibson-Park, Robbie Henshaw and Tadhg Furlong are recovering from their respective injuries while Keith Earls is sidelined with a calf issue. Joe McCarthy is also ruled out of the tournament due to an ankle injury.

Rob Herring is continuing to undergo return to play protocol but Scott Penny and Kieran Treadwell have been included in the squad.

Ireland squad:

Backs: Bundee Aki, Caolin Blade, Ross Byrne, Joey Carbery, Craig Casey, Jack Crowley, Mack Hansen, Hugo Keenan, Jordan Larmour, James Lowe, Stuart McCloskey, Conor Murray, Jimmy O'Brien, Jamie Osborne, Garry Ringrose, Johnny Sexton, Jacob Stockdale.

Forwards: Ryan Baird, Finlay Bealham, Jack Conan, Gavin Coombes, Caelan Doris, Cian Healy, Iain Henderson, Rob Herring, Ronan Kelleher, Dave Kilcoyne, Peter O'Mahony, Tom O'Toole, Scott Penny, Andrew Porter, Cian Prendergast, James Ryan, Roman Salanoa, Dan Sheehan, Kieran Treadwell, Josh van der Flier.