Versatile forward David McCann has signed a new two-year contract with Ulster Rugby, while Jake Flannery has penned a 12-month extension to remain at the province.
The 25-year-old back-rower has established himself as a vital member of the team over recent seasons following his progression through their academy.
The former Ireland Under-20s captain has been an ever-present force in Richie Murphy's side this season, featuring in every BKT United Rugby Championship and EPCR Challenge Cup match thus far.
McCann was called up to the Ireland 'A’ squad late last year in recognition of his performances this season.
He said: "I am pleased to be continuing at Ulster, the team has shown this season the journey we are on and I feel proud to be a part of that.
"I want to push myself to play at the highest level, be successful doing this and Ulster is a great place to achieve those goals.
"I’m excited for the next two seasons and how far the club can go."
Ulster Rugby’s general manager Rory Best is please to tie down McCann: "We are delighted to have secured Dave’s renewal for the next couple of years.
"He is an important player within the team, who always brings a massive amount of commitment and energy on the pitch. His ability to perform across the back row positions is a huge benefit for us as we attack both competitions in the URC and in Europe.
"Dave has a lot of playing experience now for his age and the challenge for him is to keep pushing on and develop his leadership qualities in the years ahead."
Flannery - pictured above - meanwhile has signed a one-year extension with the province until the summer of 2027.
The 26-year-old from Tipperary joined from Munster in 2022 and has made over 30 appearances for the senior side.
Meanwhile, Juarno Augustus has returned to full team training and is available for selection for Friday's refixed URC clash against Edinburgh after his recent ankle injury.
Matthew Dalton is completing graduated return protocols after a concussion he sustained in the game against Ospreys and is expected to be available for selection.
John Andrew suffered a concussion last week in training and will now follow the protocols and will be unavailable this week.
Cormac Izuchukwu, Jude Postlethwaite and Bryn Ward have all returned to the squad from Ireland camp.
Follow a live blog on Ireland v Scotland in the Six Nations on Saturday from 2.10pm on the RTÉ News App and on rte.ie/sport. Listen to commentary on Saturday Sport on RTÉ Radio 1
Watch Wales v Italy (4.40pm) and France v England (8.10pm) in the Six Nations on Saturday. Follow a live blog on France v England on the RTÉ News App and on rte.ie/sport.
