‘New Chapter’ For Prop Ryan With Ulster

Ulster have signed Irish-qualified prop Dave Ryan from Italian club Zebre on a two-year contract.

Dave Ryan came through the Munster Academy and played 10 times at senior level for Munster between 2009 and 2011.

The 27-year-old from Cork left his native province in the spring of 2011 to join Lazio Roma, before moving to Zebre at the start of the 2012/13 season.

To date he has played 20 RaboDirect PRO12 games for Zebre and made six appearances for them in the Heineken Cup.

Speaking about moving to Ravenhill, Ryan said: “I would like to thank Fabio Ongaro, the coaching staff and Zebre organisation for the opportunity that they have given me.

“I have developed a lot as a player and a person during my time in Italy. I believe that Zebre are progressing and definitely a squad whose arrow is pointing upwards.

“While a part of me is sad to leave, the opportunity to join a team with the quality and character of Ulster was too great to pass up.

“I’m excited to start a new chapter in my career with a team I have always admired for their work ethic, style of play and physicality.

“I would like to thank David Humphreys and Mark Anscombe for the opportunity. I look forward to working hard and being part of a team and organisation who compete at the highest level of European rugby.”

Ulster’s director of rugby David Humphreys added: “Dave is an experienced Irish prop with solid experience in both the PRO12 and Europe.

“He adds further squad strength to the key position of tighthead prop and I have no doubt that he will be a huge success at Ravenhill.”