Cape Town - The Lions have another loose forward setback with the news that Derick Minnie has been released from his contract.
According to Netwerk24, Minnie asked to be released from his contract with the union so that he could explore options overseas.
Minnie has not featured for the Lions in Super Rugby this season after battling with injury, and while Lions management agreed to let him go, they did so before learning that Warren Whiteley is set to miss the rest of the season with a shoulder injury.
"We did not foresee the situation with Warren and had already gibe Derick permission to leave the union," coach Johan Ackermann said.
Ackermann added that there was enoug depth at the union in the loose forwards department with players like Ruaan Lerm, Steph de Wit and Robert Kruger still available.
The Lions are expected to name their side for Saturday's clash against the Sharks later on Thursday, and Ackermann is expected to turn to Ruan Ackermann, Cyle Brink or Fabian Booysen as his new No 8.