Last Monday it was also announced that Simon's brother, Rory, also faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Rory, the hooker and captain of Ulster rugby, dislocated an ankle and should be out of action until February at the earliest. It appears to be a never ending run of back luck for the Northern Province.

Williams clearly has his work cut out for him. Bottom of the Magners League and facing the possibility of losing their Heineken Cup spot for the 2008/09 season has alarm bells ringing throughout the squad. While the increasing injury list is clearly affecting the fortunes of the side, a dramatic dip in confidence is also playing its part.

Williams is now charged with the task of improving results with limited means at his disposal. The arrival of arch-rivals Munster on Friday would provide the perfect starting point.

Declan Kidney is well aware of the importance of the next two weeks. His side are improving with every game and they will tackle the Ravenhill task with renewed vigour. The recent victory over Connacht at Musgrave Park reaffirmed the belief seeping throughout the squad. Impossible conditions and resolute Connacht defence were overcome through a combination of hard work and supreme skill.

The pack appears to have rediscovered its collective form and the performance of fringe players such as Donncha Ryan, Paul Warwick and Denis Hurley gives the coach further options as the competition for places increases.

The arrival of Doug Howlett, New Zealand's all-time leading try scorer, to the Munster squad this week should further boost the confidence levels of the squad. It seems exciting times lie ahead for the Red Province.

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