Ulster centre Jonny Bell has become Ireland's latest casualty ahead the rugby World Cup next month after he broke down during training in Dublin today.
The 29-year-old has been plagued by injury ever since making his debut nine years ago. This time his downfall is due to a long-standing Achilles tendon injury.
"I'm naturally bitterly disappointed," Bell said to BBConline. "I suppose in a way it's a great relief to know that I'm out, as I have been under considerable pressure to prove my fitness."
"Now I will concentrate in getting myself back to full fitness and ready to play for Ulster," added Bell who would have played in his third World Cup for Ireland.
There is something of a crisis unfolding in the Ireland midfield with Rob Henderson and Geordan Murphy already missing the trip due to injury. As yet, a replacement for Bell has not been announced but Bell's provincial colleague Paddy Wallace is expected to get the call-up.
Wallace, who is uncapped, plays as a utility back for Ulster having played mostly at full-back, and has previously been used as cover for David Humphreys when the fly-half is away on international duty.