Stockdale returns to Ireland squad to face Scotland

Ireland winger Jacob Stockdale has returned to Andy Farrell's squad for Sunday's Six Nations clash with Scotland after missing the opening three matches of the championship.

The 24-year-old damaged his knee playing for provincial side Ulster against Munster in early January.

"Ulster's Jacob Stockdale returns to the squad having missed the opening three rounds through injury while Shane Daly will remain at Munster," the Irish Rugby Football Union announced on Monday.

"The 36-man squad will travel to Edinburgh on Friday ahead of playing Scotland on Sunday at BT Murrayfield.

"Josh van der Flier will go through the graduated return-to-play protocols this week in the Ireland camp while there were no significant injury concerns from the other 12 players who featured in the Guinness Pro14 fixtures over the weekend."

Stockdale, who has 33 Irish caps, returned to action in Ulster's Pro14 victory over Ospreys on February 26.

Scotland have included Nick Haining, Sam Skinner and Rufus McLean in their 34-man squad.

Edinburgh back-row forward Haining and Exeter second row Skinner have both been recalled, while Glasgow's US full-back or wing McLean has won his first senior call-up.

The trio were not included in Gregor Townsend's squad for the scheduled Six Nations clash with France last month, which was postponed due to a coronavirus outbreak in Les Bleus' squad.

There is no place for Glasgow forward Zander Fagerson, who lost his appeal against a four-week suspension after being sent off against Wales.

Glasgow teammate Adam Hastings is also suspended after he was handed a three-game ban for his red card in last month's Pro14 defeat at Leinster.

Ireland are third in the Six Nations table after a win against Italy followed defeats against Wales and France.

Scotland, who have played just twice, are fifth after a shock win against England and defeat by Wales.