Robert Baloucoune could feature in Ulster's Challenge Cup final against Montpellier after returning to full training ahead of schedule. The Ireland wing was initially ruled out for three months with an elbow injury picked up during Ireland's Six Nations victory over Scotland but has recovered a month sooner than expected.

Ulster head coach Richie Murphy receives a timely boost with Baloucoune's potential return, though Jacob Stockdale is ruled out after facial surgery following a high tackle in the semi-final. David McCann has also returned to training after knee injury, but Stuart McCloskey remains out with hamstring issues.

Ulster, who haven't won a trophy in 20 years, face Montpellier in Bilbao with European qualification at stake. A victory would secure Champions Cup qualification for next season, while defeat would mean another campaign in Europe's second tier competition. The team missed out on URC play-offs on the final weekend of the regular season.