European Challenge Cup: Ulster ‘need full squad’ to win trophy – Henderson

Ulster captain Ian Henderson said the province needed their “full squad” to compete in both the European Challenge Cup and the United Rugby Championship.

Exeter Chiefs will face Richie Murphy in a European semi-final at the Aphidia Stadium on Saturday before URC games against top two Stormers and Glasgow Warriors, as they aim to finish in the top-eight and qualify for the play-offs.

The province has suffered a number of injuries recently, with Murphy looking to field a young side to beat Munster 41-14. demand balance Challenging on both fronts.

With the likes of Nick Timoney, Tom O’Toole, James Hume, Brian Ward and Jude Postlethwaite. Back to full trainingHenderson hopes they can finish the season strongly and end their 20-year trophy drought in one or both competitions.

He told BBC Sport NI: “Compared to last year, our injuries have been much more favourable. We need a full squad with games ahead of us to compete on both fronts.”

“We have to focus on the Challenge Cup this week, that’s the game in front of us. It’s incredibly exciting and really important to have a home knockout match, so we’re looking forward to it.”

Henderson, who has been with Ulster since 2012, added that trying to bring silverware to the club was not a “burden”, but had been “frustrating” at times.

He is confident the current crop of young players can deliver for Ulster and reach May’s final in Bilbao if they get the last-four tie right.

“These young lads have a bit in their teeth and want to see the club do well,” he continued.

“You have to approach the game a bit differently and realize your European season is over if you’re not on the ball, there’s an element of that.

“Knockout rugby brings a sense of excitement, so you have to play through those emotions but not let them overcome you. That’s something our boys are still learning.”