Peter O'Mahony on target for Munster return against Exeter

Munster say Peter O'Mahony has "turned a corner" and expect the Ireland backrow to be in contention to face Exeter in round two of the Champions Cup.

The 33-year-old, who stepped down as Munster skipper last month, injured his shoulder during their BKT United Rugby Championship victory over the Stormers on 18 November.

The Cork man missed their derby defeat to Leinster and victory over Glasgow and won’t feature against Bayonne in their opening European fixture on Saturday (5.30pm).

However, the trip to Sandy Park on 17 December is a target.

"He has turned a corner, a good corner thankfully over the last week or two and all going well he will be available for us for next week," said attack coach Mike Prendergast.

The URC champions will be without lock Jean Kleyn (above), who is on an injury list that also includes South Africa team-mate RG Snyman after the Springboks forward was ruled out until the New Year with an eye injury picked up in the loss to Leinster."

Kleyn, who recently signed a new deal with the province, was almost an ever-present in last season’s title winning run.

"That’s the thing, he has been so durable but unfortunately injuries happen," said Prendergast.

"And it has happened to Jean, along with RG, two World Cup-winning second rows, it goes without saying for any team to lose them is a big loss.

"On the other hand it has opened the door and created opportunities for the likes of Edwin [Edogbo] in the second row and even Tom Ahern, who we pushed into the back row.

"I suppose if you look at the last two games and you speak about performances, they are two players who you talk about and mention.

Those two lads have taken their opportunities thankfully, which has softened the blow a small bit but when you lose players