Finally, Jared Payne looks to be on the comeback trail

Ulster fans arriving very early for last weekend’s Champions Cup clash with Harlequins might have chanced upon what would be good news for the side and its coaches.

For quietly going through a series of intense exercises, his eyes betraying a familiar focus, was Ireland and British and Irish Lions centre Jared Payne.

Payne has yet to make an appearance in the white jersey this season, and he certainly won’t feature in the inter-provincial series which starts for Ulster in Connacht tomorrow evening.