Stephen Jones injury boosts London Irish's Euro hopes

London Irish have received a double boost in their bid to win the Heineken Cup.

Irish share the lead of Pool Six with Leinster and a bonus-point win away to the Scarlets could be key to their hopes of reaching the quarter-finals.

That result has become more likely with the news that Stephen Jones, the hugely influential Wales fly-half, has injured his shoulder and is struggling to be fit for the 17 January game.

The day before Leinster are at home to Brive but the Irish province face a tougher than expected test following the return to fitness of Riki Flutey.

The England centre had been out of action with a shoulder injury since August but was impressive in Brive's 29-9 win over Perpignan last week.

Andy Farrell, the Saracens skills and backs coach, has been given the same role with England Saxons.