Ulster prop Gareth Milasinovich is set to miss most of his debut season with the province.
The 26-year-old has suffered a knee ligament injury in pre-season training and will need to undergo surgery on the issue.
Ulster say the former Worcester Warriors player will be sidelined for around nine months.
"Unfortunate news for Gareth Milasinovich, who sustained an ACL tear in training.
"Gareth has been scheduled for surgery to have this repaired and he will be sidelined for approximately nine months. Wishing him a speedy recovery!"
Unfortunate news for Gareth Milasinovich, who sustained an ACL tear in training.
Gareth has been scheduled for surgery to have this repaired and he will be sidelined for approximately nine months.
Wishing him a speedy recovery! pic.twitter.com/s3ugyy4xLc
— Ulster Rugby (@UlsterRugby) July 17, 2019
The South African native's absence is likely to be felt in the first half of the season with Jack McGrath likely to travel to the World Cup with Ireland.
McFarland had hoped Milasinovich would provide options across their front row in the 2020 campaign.
"Gareth is a big strong man who will provide us with another good option and enhance competition for places in the front row.
"We have been aware of his development since his move to Worcester and we're looking forward to seeing him contribute to Ulster from next season."
