Ulster's Marcell Coetzee has been ruled out for the rest of the season following a knee injury he picked up against Zebre earlier this month.

The Springbok had only made his debut for the team in February and it was feared that he had ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament again and would require surgery.

However those fears have been calmed by the news that he will not require surgical intervention but will be out for up to four months.

Speaking about the injury update, Ulster's Director of Rugby Les Kiss said: "It really is fantastic news. I think most people were fearing the worst, that Marcell had ruptured his cruciate ligament once again, so it's great to hear that he will be back sooner than we initially expected.

"He has had a tremendous impact since he joined the club, not only on the pitch, but also on the training paddock with his huge work ethic and infectious positive attitude. It's a great boost for the club, the supporters and most importantly Marcell himself, that we will see him back in an Ulster jersey at the start of next season.

"I have spoken to Marcell and he's really pleased with the prognosis. He is extremely grateful for the care he received from the Ulster Rugby medical team and the staff at the Ulster Independent Clinic, plus for all the messages of support he has received from the Ulster fans. I know from the way he faced the challenge of his previous rehab that he will be back even better than before."