Ulster sign an Irish giant from the second tier of French rugby

Ulster have gone shopping in the French Pro D2, confirming the signing of lock Frank Bradshaw Ryan from Nevers on a one-year deal. The 26-year-old Limerick-born giant, who measures 2.05 metres, is a Munster sub-academy graduate and former Ireland U19s player who has been plying his trade in France over the past six years in France.

Bradshaw Ryan said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have signed for Ulster. It is a top club, based in a fantastic city. I love watching Ulster play at the moment and they are playing a great brand of rugby – and it’s a style of rugby that I really enjoy playing.

“I can see with some of Ulster’s recent signings, together with the top young players coming through, that they are intent on achieving big things. After spending six seasons in France, I can’t wait to get over and get started. With the set-up and coaches that Ulster have, I feel it’s a great place for me to keep learning and improving as a player.”

 Ulster boss Dan McFarland added: “Frank has worked hard in France over the last number of years to develop his game and will offer us something different at lock. We look forward to welcoming him this summer and seeing what he can deliver both on and off the field for Ulster.”