Ulster's Bok out injured ... again

INJURY UPDATE: Ulster suffered a cruel blow ahead of the Irish province’s Challenge Cup meeting with Harlequins on Sunday. 

Ulster’s powerful back row forward Marcel Coetzee has been ruled out of the European encounter.

The Springbok, Coetzee, has been struggling with a hamstring injury sustained in the March 6 Pro14 defeat to Leinster.

Ulster has now confirmed he will not be fit for Sunday’s game at Twickenham Stoop.

Coetzee, who will join South African side the Bulls later this year, is set to be out of action ‘for a number of weeks.’

Ulster could also be without Billy Burns for the trip to London.

The flyhalf is recovering from a groin injury sustained ahead of Ireland’s Six Nations win against England, and will be monitored throughout the week before a decision is made on his fitness.

David O’Connor will not be available for selection, having recently undergone shoulder surgery.

Meanwhile, Zebre’s Marco Manfredi has been banned for three weeks following his red card against Ulster on March 19.

The hooker was shown a red card by Andrew Brace in the 34th minute of the 3-49 defeat after his elbow collided with John Cooney’s face.