Marcell Coetzee says he is relishing every minute of playing time for Ulster this season after recovering from two knee injuries.

The flanker completed his first 80 minutes in over a year in a Man of the Match performance against the Kings on Saturday.

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Coetzee, who has only played eight times during his spell in Ireland, told Belfast Live that he is cherishing his time back on the field.

‘You appreciate the little things in life again, being in the mix with the squad, having a laugh and also getting the chance to play in my home country,’ the 28-capped Springbok said. ‘That’s what my injury taught me, to cherish every moment and make the most of every opportunity you get on the pitch.

‘The coaches told me [in pre-season] they’d want to ease up my minutes and target the Kings as a full 80. Luckily I got through it with no problems so happy days.’

Coetzee joined Ulster from the Sharks in 2016 and last played for the Boks against Argentina in 2015.

Photo: Michael Sheehan/Gallo Images