Not the best of news.

Ulster are set to be without marquee signing Marcell Coetzee for the rest of the season, after the northern province confirmed today that his recent knee injury will keep him out for nine months.

The Springbok flanker arrived at Ulster last summer, but has played just five times for Les Kiss’ side since arriving, as he continues to battle with the same knee problem.

He recently returned to South Africa for surgery, with the worst possible outcome now confirmed.

“Marcell Coetzee underwent surgery this week in South Africa. He has had recurrent left knee problems because of a laxity in his previously repaired ACL, and to repair this he has had revision surgery performed on this ligament. His anticipated return to play time is 9 months,” Ulster said in a statement.

Huge blow for Ulster. We all know just how good a player he is when fit.