Ulster flanker Willie Faloon signs for Connacht

Image caption, Flanker Willie Faloon is moving from Ulster to Connacht

Connacht have announced the signing of Ulster flanker Willie Faloon on a two-year deal.

Faloon, who came through Ulster's academy system, has recently found his appearances in the team limited.

Internationals Stephen Ferris, Chris Henry and Pedrie Wannenburg have been ahead of Faloon in the Ravenhill pecking order.

Back row Roger Wilson is returning to Ulster next season after a spell with Northampton.

This is the latest capture by Connacht, who have signed Leinster's Nathan White and Dan Parks of Cardiff for next term.

"Signing Willie is a big step for us," said Connacht coach Eric Elwood.

"He is an athletic, aggressive ball-carrier in the mould of a traditional number seven and, alongside his phenomenal work at the breakdown, I know he will be a major asset."

Faloon was Ulster Academy player of the year in 2009 and won the All-Ireland Senior Cup that season with Ballynahinch, as well as gaining his first Heineken Cup cap.

He was capped by the Irish Wolfhounds in 2011.