Ferris seals six-month contract extension

Ireland flanker Stephen Ferris will remain with Ulster until at least the end of 2013 after agreeing a contract extension which will allow him to regain full fitness after his ankle injury.

The 27-year-old missed the majority of last season with the injury he suffered last November, which has required three operations, the most recent in May.

He is expected to miss the first four months of next season, meaning he is unlikely to play for Ireland or Ulster prior to his new six-month contract expiring, but will instead look to complete his rehabilitation.

Ferris’ contract with Ulster and the IRFU had been due to expire on June 30, and he had been linked with a move to a club in Japan.

Ulster rugby director David Humphreys said: “Stephen has had a difficult year with injuries, but when he is fit, there is no doubt he is one of the best back-row forwards in the game. He is passionate about playing for Ulster and Ireland and our aim is to provide him with the best possible care to enable him to get back playing.”

Ferris added: “I am delighted I can continue my recovery and rehab from injury within the Ulster Rugby set-up. I believe that working with the medical team at Ulster, along with the excellent strength and conditioning coaches, offers me the best chance of regaining full fitness and of representing Ulster and Ireland again.”