Munster have revealed that influential lock Paul O'Connell will not return to action until the New Year as he continues to recover for a back problem.
O'Connell's last involvement with Munster was in the Heineken Cup round 2 game against Edinburgh at Thomond Park Stadium in mid October before taking part in training with the Irish squad during the November internationals.
A statement issued on the official Munster website today said:
“Paul O'Connell is undergoing treatment for a lower back complaint. His treatment is progressing satisfactorily. He will see a specialist for further review in the New Year.”