James Lowe is back in the Ireland squad ahead of this weekend's clash with Italy. 

The Leinster winger returns having been ruled out of the initial squad through injury.

His provincial teammate Jimmy O'Brien has also been drafted in. It's the first time he's been called up.

Lowe picked up a muscle problem while training in mid-January and was left out for the first two matches as a result.

However, he returns having featured for Leinster in the United Rugby Championship win over the Ospreys at the weekend.

Lowe scored a cracking try in a 29-7 win.

However, with Mack Hansen excelling in his first two matches at international level, Lowe adds further depth to Farrell's options.

O'Brien's first call-up follows some fine form at provincial level.

The 25-year-old - who can operate in a variety of positions across the backline - scored four tries for Leinster in their Heineken Champions Cup win over Bath last month.

All 14 players who featured for their provinces at the weekend will also return to camp later today.

The squad is due to convene this evening at Carton House, ahead of this Sunday's clash at the Aviva Stadium.

Ireland squad