LEINSTER hooker Dan Sheehan returned to action for the first time in six months last night.
The Leinster number two picked up a severe anterior cruciate ligament injury in last year’s first test of the drawn series against world champions South Africa.
And it’s been a long and testing journey back for the 26-year-old, the player paid tribute to his physio after guiding him back from the injury.
Sheehan skippered Leinster last night in the absence of Caelan Doris, and went on to star in the win over the Stormers at Aviva Stadium.
He bagged a brace of tries in the 36-12 URC win over the South African.
And the number two hailed the Leinster medical staff, his physio and boxing coach for their help with his rehab.
Speaking with Premier Sports after the win for Leo Cullen’s side as they extended their unbeaten campaign, Sheehan said: “Ohh, it’s excellent. You know, It feels like another debut of sorts.
“I was nervous during the week, it’s so nice to be part of this team. When it’s taken away from you for six months, it makes it all the more special to be out on the pitch.
“It’s a really exciting time. I’ve been helped so much – everyone in Leinster – Emma Galvin, my physio has been outstanding.
“My boxing coach, Cathal O’Grady in white collar boxing. A lot of people have put a lot of time into me – that’s what happens, it’s great to be back on the pitch.”
Sheehan is now looking forward to linking up with his Irish team-mates on Sunday in Portugal.
The squad are on a warm weather training camp at ‘The Campus’ facility in Quinta do Lago, Portugal ahead of the Six Nations Championship.
Ireland open their campaign next Saturday against fierce rivals England in Dublin.
And the former Clongowes Wood College player is relishing a return to the international fold.
He added: “I can’t wait to get back into [Ireland] camp. It was kind of weird watching from the outside over the last couple of games, these games and the Irish games.
“So, I’m looking forward to getting over to Portugal tomorrow with a couple of the lads and getting stuck into a bit of preparation.”
He’ll be joined by winger James Lowe, who also returned after not playing since November.
The duo’s return is great news for Ireland interim boss Simon Easterby.
The Campus is a state-of-the-art performance centre used by some of the wordl’s top teams and athletes.
It has also high performance gym, tennis and padel courts, swimming pool, cycling, group classes and personal training, recovery suites and sports rehabilitation.
Ireland vs England kick-off at 4:45pm next Saturday.
