Munster’s worst fears confirmed as Conor Murray is ruled out of Saracens match

Duncan Williams will be pitched in, at Allianz Park, for his first ever European Cup start

The worst fears of Munster supporters appear to confirmed, this morning, with reports that scrum-half Conor Murray will not be fit to face Saracens on Saturday. Murray took damage to his neck in scoring Munster's third try (after 32 minutes) against Zebre, on Saturday, and left the field to be assessed. Initial concussion concerns were allayed and Murray returned for the second-half. He played on until the 58nd minute and was then replaced by Williams. Several news outlets have delivered bleak news this morning and, following scan and fitness checks, the 25-year-old will sit out the Sarries clash. Murray played a bit-part in Munster's Tuesday training session down at the University of Limerick Bowl. His coach, Anthony Foley, said the neck was stiff but refused, at the time, to rule the Ireland international out of a must-win clash in Greater London. Munster do not name their team until midday on Friday. Given that Williams, the second-choice No.9, has yet to start a Heineken Cup or Champions Cup match in four seasons, the province will face an even greater challenge against Mark McCall's men. Meanwhile Munster have confirmed the absence of three other players for Saturday's encounter (1:00pm kick-off). A statement on the club website reads: 'Robin Copeland, also shoulder, continues to be monitored on a week to week basis after meeting with the specialist last week, and he will advance with his on-field involvement once symptoms improve. Dave Kilcoyne and Andrew Smith (both knee) are progressing well with their rehabilitation programmes, and, like Copeland, will not be available for selection this week.' - First published on January 14