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Gareth Fullerton

Stephen Ferris 'can't get head around' Ulster star's Irish snub

Stephen Ferris admits he "can't get my head round" Stuart McCloskey's lack of international caps.

McCloskey continues to catch the eye for Ulster, notably his offload to Luke Marshall for the opening try against Connacht two weeks ago.

The centre's talents have drawn comparisons with Sonny Bill Williams, but despite the star qualities McCloskey has been rewarded with just six Ireland caps to date.

Read more: Stephen Ferris feels Ulster star could move abroad after latest snub

During the summer Ferris claimed the snub could result in McCloskey eventually leaving Ulster to play his rugby abroad, and the former British and Irish Lion believes that uncertainty will fester as long as the Ulster number 12 is overlooked at international level.

Scarlets' Jonathan Davies tackles Stuart McCloskey of Ulster (INPHO/Bryan Keane)

"I just can't get my head around it. Why he doesn't get more international recognition?" Ferris told Premier Sports.

"If that was Bundee Aki or Robbie Henshaw who did that offload I am sure social media would probably blow up for a couple of hours afterwards.

"But we are just so used to Stuart McCloskey doing this week in and week out. He has been Ulster's most consistent player.

"Honestly, he is a giant. He is 6ft 4', 110kgs, run likes the wind. There is just so much competition ahead of him in the international game.

"He just has to keep on trying and who knows. Will we see him in an Ulster jersey for the next two or three seasons? I am not so sure because there are a lot of clubs out there wanting a big number 12 who has skills like that."

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