The Ospreys have the challenging task of tackling a Leinster side complete with their international stars in Friday’s Magners League match at the Liberty Stadium.
Henson, Hook, Mike Phillips, Sonny Parker, Huw Bennett, Duncan Jones, Alun Wyn Jones, Ian Evans and Jonathan Thomas are all missing for the Ospreys because of international duty.
But despite the Ospreys missing nine players to Nigel Davies’s Prince William Cup squad, Ospreys Assistant Coach Sean Holley promised his side will give as good as they get.
“There will be a number of fine players on show from both sides in what should be another quality Magners League fixture,” he said.
“With there being no autumn internationals in Ireland this season it is clear that Leinster will field a strong side which will give our players added motivation to set the standard for the Ospreys players on duty with Wales to follow on Saturday.”
And Holley says last weekend’s Heineken Cup loss to Gloucester can only inspire his team to shine in a competition they hope to retain.
“This week’s game gives us an opportunity to show our capabilities as Magners League champions. Leinster will arrive highly motivated following their defeat in France last weekend and they will be looking to avenge two previous narrow defeats at the Liberty Stadium.
“We have a strong home record, fine support and the players in our team will be looking to make a point in advance of the fixtures against Harlequins and Ulster.”
Ospreys: Gareth Owen; Nikki Walker, Mark Taylor, Andrew Bishop, Aled Brew; Shaun Connor, Martin Roberts; Paul James, Richard Hibbard, Adam Jones, Andy Lloyd, Lyndon Bateman, Hale T-Pole, Marty Holah, Filo Tiatia (Capt)
Replacements: Ed Shervington, Andrew Millward, Mike Powell, Tom Smith, Rhodri Wells, Ashley Beck, Jonathan Vaughton
Leinster: Kearney; Horgan, O’Driscoll (capt), Contepomi, Fitzgerald; Sexton, Willis; Wright, Blaney, Gomez, Cullen, Toner, Jowitt, Gleeson, McLaughlin
Replacements: Jackman, Healy/Le Roux, O’Kelly, Jennings, Keane, Warner, Brown
