Payne out for Ulster

Ulster have been dealt a serious setback with the news that summer signing Jared Payne is likely to be out for the season with a ruptured Achilles tendon.

The 25-year-old utility back who joined Ulster after four years of Super 15 rugby, was clearly distressed as he came off during the 12-23 RaboDirect PRO12 loss to Treviso.

Having performed for the Waikato Chiefs, Canterbury Crusaders and Auckland Blues, Payne signed a three-year deal at Ravenhill and made his debut in the 20-3 RaboDirect PRO12 defeat of the Blues.

A club statement read: "Following his early retirement from the Ulster v Treviso game on Friday evening, Ulster Rugby has confirmed that Jared Payne has ruptured his Achilles tendon.

"While at this early stage it is not possible to put an exact timeframe on the length of time that he will be out of action, the injury is likely to rule him out for a considerable period of months."

Some consolation for Brian McLaughlin comes with the return of his World Cup campaigners, among them Andrew Trimble and Paddy Wallace who will add some threat to the Ulster backline in Payne’s absence.

Adam D’Arcy, who came on for Payne last weekend, will also be eyeing a regular starting place.

The Ulster management have three weeks to assess their squad ahead of the clash with the Scarlets on October 29.