Ferris fit to face France

Ireland flanker Stephen Ferris has been passed fit for Saturday's RBS 6 Nations clash with France in Paris.

Ferris missed the 29-11 victory over Italy with the knee injury sustained on Heineken Cup duty for Ulster against Bath last month.

But the powerful 24-year-old successfully came through training on Thursday and will take his place in Ireland's back row.

Ferris was named in the starting line-up despite doubts over whether he would be ready to face France.

But, having become a key member of Ireland's pack, the big-hitting Lions Test blindside was given every opportunity to complete his recovery.

His inclusion settles the only outstanding selection issue in the starting XV, enabling head coach Declan Kidney to finalise his bench.

Kevin McLaughlin drops out of the squad altogether after deputising with some success on his Test debut against Italy in last weekend's tournament opener.

Once again Sean O'Brien of Leinster is picked to supply back row cover on the bench, leaving no room for McLaughlin.

Any lingering doubts over Jonathan Sexton's fitness have been ended with his presence among the substitutes.

Sexton sat out the Azzurri match because of a dead leg but is available to provide fly-half cover for Ronan O'Gara at the Stade de France.