Ryan turned down US to play in Italy

Cork native Dave Ryan has revealed how he turned down the chance to play for the United States during the summer so that he could pursue a professional career with Zebre in Italy.

And the former Munster prop has warned Connacht that they will underestimate Zebre at their peril in the opening game of the Heineken Cup in Parma on Saturday.

Ryan, who made 10 appearances for Munster after coming up through the ranks, said that he found himself spoilt for choice during the summer after heading to Lazio last season when he was let go by the Reds.