Jared Payne will take part in a walk through with the Irish squad on Tuesday, and is expected to take part in a full session on Wednesday meaning he will be available for inclusion for Sunday's pool decider with France.
The 29-year-old Kiwi, a key figure in Ireland's attack and defence since being fully converted to outside centre by Joe Schmidt, has struggled with a bruised foot since victory over Romania on September 27th.
Talking on Monday Ireland manager Mick Kearney said "the next 24 hours will give us a clearer picture of Jared Payne's situation," and the news emerging from Ireland's palatial new residence, Celtic Manor outside Newport on Tuesday was positive.
Number 13
Keith Earls and Luke Fitzgerald would be vying for the number 13 jersey, should Payne fail to make it, but Joe Schmidt stated Sunday night he expects to choose his team from a fully available 31-man squad and that was again echoed on Tuesday when a full bill of health was reported. All of the squad are expected to train on Wednesday.
Payne's recovery leaves Schmidt with a huge selection call on the wings and number 23 with Keith Earls, Tommy Bowe, Luke Fitzgerald, Dave Kearney and Simon Zebo vying for three jerseys.
