McMillan To Join English Side Harlequins
Neil McMillan has joined the small crop of Ulster players who have signed with English clubs for next season. The 26-year-old flanker is to link up with Guinness Premiership outfit Harlequins.
After a spell with the Leicester Under-21s, Neil McMillan made his debut for Ulster against Llanelli in August 2001 and has gone on to play 82 times for the province in the Celtic League and Cup and the Heineken Cup.
He has represented Ireland at Schools, Under-19, Under-21, Sevens and ‘A’ levels but his progress has been halted by injuries, including a bad knee injury in 2004 which kept him out for a year.
Commenting on his move to ‘Quins, he said: “I have been with Ulster for seven years and, although I have had a great time at the club, I feel that it is the right time to take the next step. ‘Quins will be a new and exciting challenge.
“I respect everything that Dean (Richards) and his squad have achieved so far this season. Harlequins is a young and dynamic team and a I am looking forward to being a part of it next season.”
Harlequins coach Dean Richards added: “I have known Neil since his early days at Leicester, and I am looking forward to being a part of his future development.
“Neil is a genuine number 7. He is a great tackler with a huge work rate.”
McMillan will begin training with the ‘Quins squad at the end of the season.