Ferris to start for Ulster

British & Irish Lions hardman Stephen Ferris will return to action from a knee injury in his first start of the season for Ulster against Edinburgh in the Magner's League at Ravenhill on Friday.

"I'm delighted to be back in an Ulster shirt come Friday, it's been hard watching the guys from the sidelines, wishing you were out there with them and part of the team, especially last Saturday," said Ferris.

"I have been itching for game time from the pre-season friendlies. It's hard to training with the squad in the run up to big games knowing you won't get your chance to play.

"I knew I would miss the first few Magners games, so I have been focused on getting in peak condition for when the call came."