Ireland international suffers face fracture in European Cup semi-final

Whilst the extent of Stockdale's time on the side-lines has not yet been confirmed, the province revealed today that the Ireland wing is set to meet with a maxillo-facial surgeon this week, to assess the injury.

Ulster booked themselves a spot in the EPCR Challenge Cup Final, as they triumphed over the Chiefs 29-12 at the Affidea Stadium. Stockdale's day was curtailed twice, as after a frustrating trip to the sin bin following a high tackle, the flyer was withdrawn for a HIA, which he would subsequently fail with a fracture being the outcome.

Ulster managed to rally on without their wing, and head to Bilbao in a fortnight's time to take on Montpellier in the Challenge Cup Final. However, the province have also confirmed that Ireland centre Stuart McCloskey (hamstring) and back row David McCann (back row), also sustained injuries in the semi-final triumph. The duo are set to be assessed, with updates soon to be released by the club.

Meanwhile, there are promising signs for a trio of Ulster players, who continue to recover from their respective injuries and lesson the blow. Wallabies prop Angus Bell looks continues towards a return from his foot issue, whilst Rob Herring (calf) and Scott Wilson (ankle) have also reintegrated into team training and their fitness for selection for this week will be assessed in due course.