And a local pair of healing hands have been given the job of making sure Ulster's top players are back to their best as soon as possible.

Alan McCaldin has joined the Ulster Rugby management team as a physiotherapist and will be working alongside resident Ulster Physiotherapist Gareth Robinson as well as with the Ulster Rugby Academy level one Players at UUJ. McCaldin was educated at Banbridge Academy and completed his degree at the University of Ulster.

A keen rugby player himself, Alan recently retired from the first XV at Dromore Rugby Club following a 17-year playing career. Alan has previously worked with the Sports Institute of Northern Ireland and Dungannon RFC as well as having his own private practice.

Alan said he is delighted to have the opportunity to be working at Ravenhill. "I have always supported Ulster; one of my earliest memories is watching Dr Irwin winning an Inter pro title here at Ravenhill. I am enjoying working alongside GG and the rest of the squad and am very much looking forward to the season ahead," he said.