No French flirting for Iain Henderson as contract nears

Iain Henderson’s agent may be in the midst of his contract negotiations with the IRFU but the Ulster forward wasn’t exactly fluttering his eyes at any English or French suitors yesterday when asked for an update.

The 25-year had spoken in recent months about the need to balance financial and rugby considerations and he is well aware of his market value as a British and Irish Lion and the fact that Donnacha Ryan’s departure to France only strengthens his hand with the union.

His ability to hop between the second row and back row is another card in what is a strong hand.