British & Irish Lions
Corbisiero leaves England to join up with Lions
ESPN Staff
June 5, 2013
Alex Corbisiero has flown out to join the Lions
© PA Photos
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Prop Alex Corbisiero has left England's touring party to join up with the British & Irish Lions as cover following the injury suffered by Cian Healy during Wednesday's game against the Western Force. Lions coach Warren Gatland said in the aftermath of the Lions' 69-17 victory in Perth that they would wait to ascertain the seriousness of Healy's ankle ligament injury before thinking about adding a replacement to the squad, but Corbisiero has since been told to leave the England party in Argentina and fly out to Australia - suggesting Healy's tour may already be over. "We're delighted for Alex," England coach Stuart Lancaster said. "It's very pleasing for him after he missed the Six Nations through injury and he goes with our full support and blessing. All the England players and management couldn't be more pleased for him to get this opportunity." Gatland had previously indicated that Healy's injury would have to be serious for a replacement to be called out, with Mako Vunipola and Gethin Jenkins offering options at the position. "We'll potentially talk about somebody tonight once we've found out what condition Cian's in and had a chat to him," Gatland said. "If it's a bit more serious then we'll have to quickly look at getting a replacement out." An impending disciplinary hearing against Healy could also factor into Corbisiero's call-up. The Ireland prop is set to face a panel in Brisbane, having been charged with an act "contrary to good sportsmanship" after Western Force scrum-half Brett Sheehan alleged he had been bitten by his opponent midway through the first half. Corbisiero has set his sights on earning a starting spot by the time the Test series with Australia rolls around. "I am going there to be first choice and to put my hand up," he said. "It's going to be a big challenge and there are so many quality players out there. Just to go out there is amazing, but once I'm out there I want to get in the Test team. I am really excited." © ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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