Rugby:Connacht have moved to cover the departing trio of Ian Keatley, Fionn Carr and Sean Cronin by bringing in the Ulster pair of Niall O'Connor and Mark McCrea while George Naoupu has also re-joined from Japan.

Outhalf O’Connor and winger McCrea are like-for-like replacements for the outgoing Keatley and Carr. Naoupu, who made 14 appearances for the province in 2009, will bolster their back row options.

“We are delighted with the news that these players are joining Connacht,” Connacht chief executive Gerry Kelly said today. “McCrea and O’Connor are both outstanding players and they will no doubt add an extra dimension to our backline.

“Recalling George Naoupu from Japan is a big move for us, he was exceptional for Connacht in 2009 and a big loss to the squad when he moved last year. George is a dynamic ballcarrier and inspirational player to those around him so we are looking forward to his return.”