Paddy Jackson's guaranteed involvement with the Ireland team over the coming years and the impending retirement of Ian Humphreys means Ulster need numbers at out-half in the future.
That's why the province has today announced deals for two exciting young players.
Brett Herron, who has represented England at U18 level but is also Irish qualified, has been signed from Bath.
Johnny McPhillips, an Ireland U20 star, has been handed a development contract.
It's been confirmed that Brett Herron will be joining us from Bath & Johnny McPhillips has signed a dev. contract pic.twitter.com/guQ24Iv6uC
— Ulster Rugby (@UlsterRugby) April 6, 2016
Ulster Director of Rugby Less hailed the potential of the 20-year-old Herron.
We are delighted to bring Brett into the Ulster environment. He has undoubted potential, with an array of skills and real line-breaking ability, which we aim to explore further. With the depth of International-class outhalves at Bath, Brett's opportunities have been limited to the 'A' team and Rosslyn Park, where he has excelled. An injury curtailed his almost certain starting berth for England in the U20 World Cup.
He also lauded McPhillips' maturity.
Johnny McPhillips enjoyed a successful stint with Ireland U20s in this season's Six Nations Championship and that experience will stand him in good stead. He is mature well beyond his years and he has the right temperament and ability to succeed at the highest level. He will undoubtedly push through next season and stake a claim for senior squad involvement.
Picture credit: SPORTSFILE
