GUINNESS PRO12: Iain Henderson in Ulster return, but season over for Dan Tuohy

Henderson is likely to play for Ulster when they return to Guinness PRO12 action on Friday night against defending champions, Glasgow Warriors, at Scotstoun.

The utility forward who can play backrow or lock, suffered a serious hamstring tear at the start of December last year playing against Edinburgh. There were fears at the time he could miss the entire season.

However, one of Ireland’s World Cup stars last year, did miss the Six Nations Championship but is set to be involved this weekend as Ulster begin a critical period in the PRO12.

Les Kiss said yesterday: “Iain is right in the mix at this stage (of the week).

“If everything comes up rosy in the Captain’s Run he is in the mix, but we need to see the reports after training today.”

While it was boost to have Henderson close to a return, there was disappointing news for Dan Tuohy.

He has been ruled out for the remainder of the season.

Tuohy had suffered a thumb injury at the start of the year, but it appears there are complications surrounding the injury which has set him back.

Kiss said: “Dan has had another procedure so he is going to move to off season and a return at the start of the new season.”

British Lions winger, Tommy Bowe, is also close to making a return from a long-term knee injury, but it could be another week yet.

Ulster currently lie in fourth place, four points ahead of Glasgow.

After the Scots Ulster will face leaders Connacht at Kingspan Stadium in which is a massive fortnight for them in terms of pushing their case to make the League play-offs.