Sam Prendergast has stepped up his rehabilitation from a wrist injury as he took part in training with the Ireland squad ahead of Friday’s Nations Championship clash against Argentina at the Aviva Stadium.
Fly-half Prendergast had been forced out of Leinster’s United Rugby Championship win over Munster on October 24 after picking up the problem during club training.
The 23-year-old, though, was able to take part in the final pitch session of the week before Ireland head coach Andy Farrell names his team to face the Pumas.
Connacht’s Ciaran Frawley is on standby to come in should Prendergast not be passed fit.
Jamie Benson, handed a first call-up alongside Ulster team-mate James McNabney, could also slot in to the number 10 role if required.
With captain Caelan Doris another among those on an extended injury list, Dan Sheehan is set to lead the side.
Ireland prop Tadhg Furlong has avoided a ban after being cited following an alleged incident involving Munster back-row Gavin Coombes during Leinster’s victory.
Coombes complained to referee Andrew Brace late in the first half that he had been grabbed in the groin by an unnamed Leinster player. Television match official Colin Stanley was unable to find evidence of the incident at the time.
The 33-year-old Furlong subsequently appeared in front of an independent disciplinary panel which unanimously dismissed the complaint, concluding he did not commit an act of foul play.
Versatile back Jimmy O’Brien has been following a graduated return-to-play programme after he sustained a concussion in the same URC game.
Leinster centre Garry Ringrose, though, is unlikely to be involved as he continues his recovery from a hamstring problem.
Farrell’s side head into the autumn round of fixtures looking to build again from a promising summer.
A memorable 33-31 comeback victory over Australia in Sydney in their opening game was followed by beating Japan before being outmuscled by New Zealand.
After facing the Pumas in Dublin, Ireland host Fiji and then world champions South Africa on November 21 ahead of the finals weekend at Allianz Stadium Twickenham.