The week long camp is described by Coach Mark McCall as "important week in the year" - everyone, with the exception of Justin Harrison who arrive in Ulster last week has been back in training since the 13th July.

The whole squad of 37, including newcomers Fitzpatrick and Harrison as well as the development players will spend the week in St Andrews where in addition to training there will be an important emphasis on team bonding.

"The timing of the camp is very good," said McCall. "It is an important week in our year. Obviously from a rugby point of view but also socially. We have got a number of younger players there and some new players there and living in each other's pockets everyday, you can't help but get to know the people a little bit better."

While the team are targeting early September, and the first Celtic League game away to Cardiff as the time for everything to come together, there are two pre-season friendlies prior to that, the first against London Irish on Friday 19th August and the second against Rotherham on 26th August.

Tickets for both friendlies are now on sale from the Ulster Rugby Offices, online and from usual outlets.