Hayes has Munster's backing
Monday, 5 October 2009Munster prop John Hayes received a show of support from his coach and captain today ahead of a hearing into an alleged stamping.
The Lions player faces a disciplinary panel tomorrow after an uncharacteristic red card offence on opposing prop Cian Healy during his team's Magners League defeat to Leinster on Saturday.
Coach Tony McGahan insisted there was no malicious intent in the incident.
'We feel that he was just trying to find the ground with his foot,' McGahan said. 'We certainly feel confident that John will be held in high regard as he is and his record will speak for itself.'
McGahan is confident he has a strong squad to pull from for the upcoming Heineken Cup tie against Northampton if Hayes ends up being punished.
'Tony Buckley is an international player so we feel that he would easily be able to step into that position,' he added.
Munster and Lions captain Paul O'Connell said he believed the alleged stamping had been accidental.
'I reckon Hayes probably meant to ruck the player,' he said. 'It would be disappointing to lose him, he's been great for us for a very long number of years.
'I don't know how it's going to go on Tuesday, we'll have to see that, but hopefully he won't be gone for that long.'
