Ulster have suffered a major blow with the news that Tyrone Howe may be sidelined for up to three months.

The Ireland and Lions winger was replaced after seven minutes, during Ulster's 25-6 Heineken Cup victory over Cardiff on Friday at Ravenhill.

Further medical reports have revealed a serious hamstring tear.

''I am afraid Tyrone's injury is extremely bad," said Ulster coach Alan Solomons.

''It is still a bit early to tell, but he could be out for six to 12 weeks.

In the bone-crunching battle at Ravenhill Ulster also lost the services of their centre pairing of Jonny Bell and Shane Stewart - though neither is thought to have serious injury.

Stewart suffered severe cramp in both legs, while Bell was replaced after jarring his knee

But Solomons is confident that both players will be fit for Friday's Celtic League tie against Llanelli in Belfast.

''Jonny is not too bad and I am hopeful that he will be ready for next Friday," he said.

''Shane had severe cramp. He has not played much this season, and he began to feel it near the end. He should be fine for next week.''

The Ulster management will be keen for the pair to compete in the play-off deciding match

In this season's Heineken Cup, Ulster sit in third place in Pool Six following their victory over Cardiff in Round 2, and defeat to Northampton 32-9 at Franklin's Gardens