Connacht flanker Willie Faloon to make Ulster return

Willie Faloon sprints sprints clear of Nick Williams, who will become his team-mate at Ulster

Connacht flanker Willie Faloon will return to his native Ulster next season on a one-year deal.

The 28-year-old left Ulster to join Connacht in 2012 and has scored six tries in 39 games for the Galway side.

Faloon came through the Ulster Academy and made 63 appearances for the senior team from 2008.

"While I am pleased to be returning to Ulster, I want to thank the coaches and fans of Connacht who have backed me in the past three seasons," said Faloon.

He added: ""I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Galway and in the next few months I am completely focused on helping Connacht be successful in both the Pro12 and the European Rugby Challenge Cup."

Ulster team manager Bryn Cunningham is delighted to have the former Irish Wolfhounds player back at the Kingspan Stadium.

"Willie has a hard edge to his game and he will provide us with another excellent option at Pro12 and European level," he said.

"He has been in fantastic form for Connacht this season and he will come home to challenge for the number 7 jersey.

"Such competition for starting places only serves to drive up performance levels across the board, therefore I am delighted to see Willie coming back to Belfast."