Ulster's Rory Best could be fit to play against Aironi

MAGNERS LEAGUE
Venue: Stadio Luigi Zaffanella, Viadana Date: Saturday, 11 September
Kick-off: 1805 GMT Coverage: Live video on the BBC Sport Website

Rory Best was injured in Ulster's match against Ospreys

Fears over the fitness of Ireland hooker Rory Best have receded after it was revealed his neck injury is only tissue damage.

The 27-year-old was replaced in the second half of Ulster's 27-26 Magners League win over the Ospreys on Friday.

Best had a disc removed from his neck last year as he battled with a career-threatening injury and there were fears he had aggravated the problem.

Ulster centre Ian Whitten has responded well to treatment for a dead leg.

The province will be keen to build on their fine opening night win over the reigning champions when they travel to face one of the league's new Italian participants.

It will be a big boost if they have hooker Best on board so the injury update will be a relief to coach Brian McLaughlin.

"Following investigation and opinion from his surgeon, Ulster Rugby can confirm that, contrary to some speculation, Rory Best has sustained no new injury or any further damage to his neck," a statement reported on Monday.