An ankle injured has ruled Ulster’s back-row star Cormac Izuchukwu out of contention for club and country for a ‘number of weeks.’
The international forward was forced off during Ulster’s 34-19 loss in Treviso, an injury that ruled him out of Ireland’s Six Nations victory over Wales in Cardiff on Saturday. It’s now confirmed that he will play no part in this year’s Championship.
Ulster head coach Richie Murphy will also be without Iain Henderson (hamstring) for Saturday’s home United Rugby Championship game against the Scarlets at Ravenhill, however Jake Flannery (hamstring) and Michael Lowry (concussion) are expected to return to the fold. Both players will have their fitness assessed throughout the week.
John Cooney is a doubt after suffering a calf injury in training.
Meanwhile Ulster signed loose-head prop Sam Crean from Saracens on a short-term deal. The Irish qualified forward will be available for selection on Saturday.