Timely boost.

Munster demolished Leicester this past weekend despite having a number of their top international players missing. Their 33-10 victory over the Tigers at Thomond Park shows just how strong their depth has gotten in each position.

A number of players on academy contracts have been drafted in, and a number of development players have really stepped up to the plate in some massive games. Now ahead of the return fixture with Leicester at Welford Road, Munster could have as many as three Ireland internationals back in the mix.

Keith Earls, Niall Scannell and James Cronin have all returned to training this week, and could feature in the crucial Champions Cup fixture.

Earls returns to training this week after injuring his hamstring while training with Ireland last month, while hooker Scannell will continue to work his way back to full fitness after undergoing surgery on a thumb injury he suffered against Castres back in October. Loosehead James Cronin will return to training in a limited capacity as he continues to recover from a calf injury.

This weekend will be tough. Munster will take any boosts they can get.