Brian O'Driscoll's injury was a blow to Irish coach Eddie O'Sullivan

O'Driscoll has had surgery on the shoulder he dislocated in the first Test of the Lions' tour of New Zealand.

"It is early days, but I remain hopeful he will be able to participate in the autumn series," said O'Sullivan.

Meanwhile, Malcolm O'Kelly and Gordon D'Arcy have had minor operations to correct their respective injuries.

Lock O'Kelly's Lions tour was ended before the opening match against Bay of Plenty due to a groin muscle injury.

It will be a good year in terms of developing for the next World Cup Eddie O'Sullivan

D'Arcy, who ruled himself out of the third Test against the All Blacks due to general fatigue, is aiming to shake off a shoulder problem before September's Celtic League start.

O'Sullivan's plans for Ireland's season opener against the All Blacks on 12 November will definitely include O'Kelly and D'Arcy.

"Everyone else is fit, which is just as well given the difficult programme we have. We will have 11 Tests next season," O'Sullivan.

"Besides coming up against New Zealand and Australia, we face England and France away in the Six Nations.

"Throw in our summer tour games against Australia and New Zealand and you will really appreciate that it is going to be a tough year.

"At the same time, it will be a good year in terms of developing for the next World Cup."