Internationals return to strengthen Ulster squad

ULSTER have been boosted by the return of a number of key players for tonight’s trip to play Edinburgh at Murrayfield.

Coach Brian McLaughlin welcomes back his international contingent, with Andrew Trimble, Stephen Ferris, Tom Court and Rory Best all returning to the starting XV having missed the Inter-provincial games over the festive period.

Trimble’s return sees Craig Gilroy shift to the left wing and Stefan Terblanche move back to full-back, with Adam D’Arcy the player making way. Ian Whitten and Darren Cave again form the centre partnership, while Ruan Pienaar and Ian Humphreys continue as half backs.

Best and Court are included in the front row in place of Andi Kyriacou and the injured Paddy McAllister. They are joined by All Black prop John Afoa, who picked up the man of the match award in the 33-17 win over Munster last weekend. Captain Johann Muller and Dan Tuohy once again combine in the second row. Stephen Ferris’ inclusion on the blindside flank results in Chris Henry moving to the openside berth, while Pedrie Wannenburg remains at No 8, meaning Willie Faloon has to settle for a place on the bench. Paddy Wallace has returned to the squad after seven weeks on the sidelines with tendon damage in his thumb. He is joined on the bench by D’Arcy and Faloon, as well as front row cover Andi Kyriacou, Callum Black and Adam Macklin, and scrum-half Paul Marshall.

With Ulster just seven points adrift of fourth spot, a win would be a huge boost to their hopes of progressing to the play-offs, but defeat would be damaging.

McLaughlin said: “It’s a crucial game for us, not only in terms of the Pro12, but also with Europe in mind next week. We must keep winning games in the Pro12 to put ourselves back in contention.”

The Ravenhill coach said the return of his big names had obviously been a boost. He added: “It’s been great having the internationals back, including Paddy (Wallace). They will bring a bit extra to the team. They’re itching to get involved again and we are looking forward to having them back in.”

McLaughlin admitted he was faced with some tough decisions, saying: “Adam D’Arcy has been playing very well over the past few matches but Stefan has a bit more experience and we wanted to give him an opportunity to impress.”