Ulster have confirmed that Jared Payne is set to miss their opening two European Champions Cup matches.

The Irish international has had surgery on the broken bone in his foot, which he suffered during World Cup win over Italy and he is now expected to be out of action for at least six to eight weeks.

Ulster kick off their Champions Cup campaign against French club Oyonnax on November 14th, before hosting Saracens six days later. Toulouse are also in their pool.

Last night on Off The Ball, Brian O'Driscoll touched on how Payne's absence against Argentina affected Ireland defensively on Sunday.