Signings are encouraging for Ulster
At last. The most high-profile signing in the history of Ulster rugby arrives in Belfast this week.
Fans should be able to catch a glimpse of South African international Ruan Pienaar at Ravenhill this weekend as he samples his first Friday night experience.
The 26-year-old won't be in a white shirt just yet - his playing debut will more than likely to be the following week away to Connacht.
Pienaar is a utility back and can play play either scrum-half, fly-half or full-back but I am told he is coming to Ulster to play exclusively at number nine.
The signing of South Africam scrum-half shows Ulster have big ambitions
"Ruan who?" was the jocular response from the player who presently holds the shirt, when I asked him about Pienaar's imminent arrival.
Paul Marshall, who has made a fine start to this season, will no doubt continue to progress and gain valuable experience by working alongside the Springbok.
Pienaar is undoubtedly one of the most naturally gifted young players in the world game, but he may not turn out to be Ulster's most important signing this year. I think that player is Stevie Ferris.
The Irish international is one of the most in-demand players in the game and his decision this week to spend another two years with Ulster signals his intent to win silverware with his own province.
I'm Stephen Watson and I'm a presenter with BBC Northern Ireland. I anchor our live rugby, football, and motorcycling coverage. I also love golf and boxing. 
