Ulster have a trio of injury concerns ahead of Saturday's Guinness PRO14 semi-final with Edinburgh at Murrayfield.
Jacob Stockdale limped out of last week's defeat to Leinster at the Aviva Stadium. The initial feeling from head coach Dan McFarland was that the winger-cum-full back had avoided a strain.
His hunch has proved correct, with Ulster saying Stockdale escaped with a "contusion". The extent of that bruising hasn't been revealed, but Ulster say he'll be monitored as the week goes on.
There's a similar prognosis for centre Stuart McCloskey, who is also dealing with a contusion sustained in the 28-10 loss to Leinster.
Of the players taking bangs from last week's game at Lansdowne Road, Jordi Murphy appears the most doubtful for the trip to the Scottish capital.
The flanker is undergoing the return-to-play protocols having picked up a concussion against his former side.
Former Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll believes Stockdale could be key to Ulster's hopes of success in the PRO14.
In his eyes, the 24-year old is vying with Jordan Larmour to be Andy Farrell's first choice 15 for Ireland later in the summer.
"Sometimes I wonder does he realise the power that he punches, that he packs when he's accelerating into contact, "O'Driscoll told OTB Sports' Monday Night Rugby, "Stockdale has to learn he's got another five or ten per cent in those collision zones."
"A player like Jacob Stockdale is going to rise to the occasion be it on the wing or at 15. He's a couple of years older and he's in the position to take on a bit more pressure."
Team of Us. Everyone In.
Vodafone. The main sponsor of the Irish Rugby Team
Download the brand new OffTheBall App in the Play Store & App Store right now! We've got you covered!
Subscribe to OffTheBall's YouTube channel for more videos, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for the latest sporting news and content.
