Fearless Ferris forced to admit defeat as injury ends career

Ireland flanker Stephen Ferris has been forced to retire after the ankle problem that sidelined him for 16 months struck again.

The Lions loose-forward suffered serious ankle damage in Pro12 action for Ulster against Edinburgh in November 2012. The 28-year-old fought back to make three Ulster appearances this term, but has since suffered a recurrence of the issue.

The 35-cap back-rower had hoped to shake off the problem once and for all and secure a new Ravenhill deal, yet he has now been forced to admit defeat.