Connacht outhalf Niall O’Connor is set to return to Ulster after one season at the Galway Sportsground. Coach Eric Elwood recruited the Limavady-born O’Connor last season on a two-year deal, but it is understood Connacht have agreed to allow the 23-years-old to return to his native province.
O’Connor, having taken a back seat to Ian Humphreys, moved west in a bid to boost his career. And with Miah Nikora injured, he established himself as Connacht’s first choice outhalf, particularly after a fine display against Gloucester in the Heineken Cup. A head injury in the February game with Edinburgh ruled him out for the remainder of the season.
However the departure of Ulster’s Ian Humphreys for London Irish, has left a vacant spot for another Irish-qualified outhalf and Ulster have come calling for O’Connor’s services again. Connacht, with former Scottish veteran Dan Parkes joining next month, have agreed to release O’Connor, which should allow Elwood to sign another back.
