Ireland's assistant coach Les Kiss has reinforced the prognosis that Ulster flanker Chris Henry will eventually play rugby again – following his recent heart surgery.

“I think it’s a when,” Kiss responded to a question about whether Henry’s return to the field is a case of ‘if or when’.

The 30-year-old was hospitalised before the Springbok game on November 8th with the IRFU initially describing the problem as a virus before upgrading his condition to a blood vessel blockage in his brain.

“I had a text from Chris reporting that he felt really great. I think the key thing at the moment is that he is in recovery. The procedure has been done and that shouldn’t give him any further issues.

“There has not been a clear timeline. It’s about getting him well and healthy in the next few weeks and then assessing him then.” Kiss was speaking at the announcement of the Ulster Bank club awards that will take place in May 2015.