Best, Trimble and Ferris in Ulster squad

Ulster have named Ireland trio Rory Best, Andrew Trimble and Stephen Ferris in their squad to face Aironi in Friday’s RaboDirect Pro12 clash at Ravenhill (kick-off 7.05pm).

McLaughlin will be hoping his side come through with a clean bill of health as their Heineken Cup quarter-final showdown against Munster looms large on the horizon.

Pedrie Wannenburg has overcome illness and is also named in Brian McLaughlin’s 32-man panel.

Ireland Wolfhounds prop Declan Fitzpatrick has been given the all clear following his neck injury and he has made a welcome return to the squad.

The early withdrawal of captain Johann Muller and centre Darren Cave against Treviso on Saturday was precautionary so both are available to face the Italians.

Tim Barker is the only fresh injury concern after a back injury ruled him out of consideration. Simon Danielli (hamstring) and Mike McComish (concussion) remain sidelined.

Ulster are the form team in the Pro12, having picked up 24 points from their last six matches.

The province’s only defeat in the competition since December was 14-21 at Cardiff Blues on February 17.

Aironi Rugby tripped up at Glasgow last Friday and are still searching for a first away victory in their history. The Italians have won two of their last three matches against Irish provinces, however.