STEPHEN FERRIS HAS undergone a setback in his bid to recover from injury and now looks set to be out for the remainder of the season, according to reports.

The Ulster player’s chances of even being in contention for the Lions squad look to be in jeopardy, after the province today released a statement, which read:

“Ulster flanker Stephen Ferris underwent surgery in December to repair ankle tendon damage that he sustained in a RaboDirect PRO12 match against Edinburgh.

“The 27 year-old was reviewed this week (Tuesday) as part of his ongoing rehabilitation programme. In that review it was discovered that, although Stephen has made excellent progress in his recovery, some minor issues remain.

“As a result, the specialist medical-staff treating Stephen are considering several options to ensure that he makes a full and complete return to play.

“A decision on a course of action will be made in the coming weeks.”

Meanwhile, according to the BBC, the player is likely out for the rest of the season and may have to undergo another operation.

The star injured his ankle playing against Edinburgh back in November.

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