Stephen Ferris has been confirmed as unfit for selection for Ireland's opening game of the RBS 6 Nations Championship against Italy, following a consultation with a knee specialist.
Stephen Ferris picked up a cartilage injury to his right knee during Ulster's Heineken Cup pool win over Aironi last Saturday and was unable to train with the Ireland squad this week during their Limerick camp.
The knee did not respond to the rest period and Ferris was referred to the knee specialist who confirmed yesterday evening that while the injury did not require surgery, he would not be available for the Italy game.
Ferris will continue with his rehabilitation and while there remains a doubt regarding his availability, he has not been ruled out for Ireland's clash with France on Sunday week.
