The flanker's recovery from an ankle injury that saw him undergo intensive treatment this week is a welcome boost for UIster as they look to cause an upset against the two-time European champions.

The availability of the Ireland international will delight Ulster coach Brian McLaughlin, who is expecting a tough encounter.

"It will an unbelievably physical battle," said McLaughlin.

"They will be smarting from their defeat to Leinster last weekend and they will want to make up for that by beating us on Sunday."

Centre Paddy Wallace echoed his coach's thoughts, but feels Ulster can get a result in Limerick.

"No matter who you get in the knockout stages it will be tough, and there can't be many bigger asks than Munster away from home," said the Irish international.

"There is a massive mystique about Munster, but that isn't as big a factor for us as it perhaps is for French or English clubs.

"We know them well, we mix with their players and there is that familiarity with them which other teams don't have."