Chris Henry’s “migraines” were actually a blood vessel blockage in his brain

Chris Henry's omission from the squad to play South Africa last weekend raised a few eyebrows.

Ireland's team doctors put the headaches with which the forward was suffering down to migraines from a viral sickness but news came today that the issue is more serious than first anticipated. It has now emerged that the Ulster flanker was actually suffering from a temporary blockage of a blood vessel in his brain. A statement from the IRFU today said: "Chris Henry suffered some weakness on the morning of the South Africa game and a viral illness was suspected, he recovered quickly and the initial diagnosis was of severe migraine. "Further tests however have shown he suffered a temporary blockage of a small blood vessel in his brain. He is at home now and is well but needs further investigation and specialist opinion."

We wish @chrishenry678 a speedy recovery & hope to see him back for @UlsterRugby & @IrishRugby. #ShoulderToShoulder pic.twitter.com/h8CKAnekLO — Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) November 17, 2014