Rugby:Rory Best and Stephen Ferris been left out of the Ulster squad for Saturday's trip to Italy where they will face Magners League newcomers Aironi for the first time.
Best is still recovering from a soft tissue injury he picked up during the province’s hugely encouraging win over the Ospreys and has been rested as part of the IRFU’s player management programme.
Ferris, a try-scorer last Friday, will also sit this one out but the back row will be bolstered by the return of fellow Ireland international Chris Henry.
Aironi held their own against Musgrave Park in the first half last Saturday and Ulster coach Brian McLaughlin is expecting a stern test in Viadana.
“This is Aironi’s first home game,” he said today. “They will be very agressive and physical, they played exceptionally well against Munster last weekend. They have a good pack that is very well directed by Mercier. They have signed very well, key for them is Bortolami in the lineout.
“We had a great performance on Friday against the Ospreys, lots of pride and passion but we have to build on that and go to Italy to get something”
Ulster squad:Tom Court, Paddy McAllister, Bryan Young, Declan Fitzpatrick, Adam Macklin, Neil McComb, Nigel Brady, Andi Kyriacou, Johann Muller, Tim Barker, Chris Henry, Ryan Caldwell, Willie Faloon, TJ Anderson, Robbie Diack, Pedrie Wannenburg. Adam D'Arcy, David McIlwaine, Nevin Spence, Tommy Seymour, Jonny Shiels, Darren Cave, Ian Whitten, Paddy Wallace, Ian Humphreys, Niall O'Connor, Ian Porter, Paul Marshall, Jamie Smith