Ulster number eight Nick Williams is expected to be out for eight weeks after sustaining medial ligament damage to his left knee.
Williams was a try-scorer in Ulster's Heineken Cup Round Five win over Glasgow Warriors on Friday, before being substituted in the 62nd minute.
The former Blues and Aironi number eight has been in impressive form this season for the Irish side, with seven tries including three in his last three matches.
Outhalf Paddy Jackson was assessed yesterday for an ankle injury he picked up against Glasgow, as was winger Craig Gilroy who suffered a bang to the head on Friday night.
Jackson's ankle is responding well to physiotherapy treatment, while Gilroy is following the necessary return-to-play protocol.
It is hoped that both players will be available for selection for this weekend's Heineken Cup game against Castres Olympique.
Comments
Stag91 says...
Able replacement in Roger Wilson (who I prefer to start matches anyway), but still a sizeable loss
Posted 01:02 15th January 2013
jmckenna92 says...
@Melkdave not really, williams is a brilliant ball carrier but has to many turnovers and doesnt do as much around the park as Roger Wilson, not a huge miss in my eyes
Posted 21:34 14th January 2013
melkdave says...
Big blow for Ulster just as it gets to the nitty gritty of HC qualification,for the knockouts.Just aswell they qualified last week.As i dont think they will be victorious in France.,Williams has been outstanding,in giving Ulster go forward this season,he willbe missed in that regard.
Posted 18:04 14th January 2013