RICHARD JOHNSON is to undergo a keyhole inspection of his knee in an attempt to discover what is holding up his progress.

Johnson has had a break in the sun after being told to rest the thickening joint, and although the fluid has been reduced, it has not lessened sufficiently to please the player or surgeon.

Two other players have sustained stress fractures. They are promising youngster Gary Fisken, who has a stress fracture of his tibia, and Eire international Dominic Foley has a stress fracture of his fibular.

"Originally, when Dominic came back from international duty, it was thought he had trapped a nerve," said Taylor. "This is bad news for both players, particularly the young boy Fisken who was coming on well. They have to have a rest, could be in plaster, and it does take time."

The only other injuries involve a slight groin strain for Tommy Mooney.

Alex Bonnot's frustrating saga continues with an extension of his calf problems.