Horgan required surgery after sustaining cartilage damage while on European Cup duty at Gloucester last month and had set his set sights on playing in the February 24 appointment with England.

But instead the powerful 28-year-old, who was in wrecking-ball form during the autumn, has made a remarkable recovery in time for the historic opening rugby international at Croke Park.

'Horgan has made a pretty phenomenal comeback from what was regarded to be a minimum three-week injury. Hes ready a week early,' said coach Eddie O'Sullivan.

'Shane has worked tirelessly since he suffered the injury at Gloucester and credit must also go to our medical staff who have managed him so well.

'The surgeon should also be praised but special praise should go to our rehab physio Brian Green, who has done an incredible job on him.

'It was a team effort and this is fantastic news. The speed of his turnaround is very important to us.'

Horgan's return is particularly well timed given captain Brian O'Driscoll is rated only 50/50 to meet the French.

O'Driscoll sustained a hamstring strain during the 19-9 victory over Wales and will be given until as late as possible to prove his fitness.

If the 28-year-old fails to recover, Horgan will move into the centres with Geordan Murphy taking the number 14 jersey and Andrew Trimble winning a place on the bench.

One more position on the teamsheet has been left blank pending a fitness test with veteran Munster scrum-half Peter Stringer battling against a minor hand fracture.

Should Stringer miss out, Isaac Boss will be promoted to the starting line-up with Eoin Reddan winning a place among the substitutes.

'Brian and Peter are progressing but it will be down to the wire before we know if they're ready. We're not sure when we'll know but we're working on things,' he said.

'The timelines are very tight. Brian is a good healer and we're working around the clock on it.

'Peter has got a small crack in a bone in his hand. Its not an issue that could stop him playing but it could restrict his ability to pass and to grapple and hold, which would affect his performance.