There should be a fresh look to Connacht as five of their new signings are included in the squad to play The Ospreys in the opening game of the Magners league at the Sportsground on Friday (kick-off 7pm).
Out-half Miah Nikora, in union with Ian Keatley, will be asked to provide the consistent control and goal-kicking necessary for Connact to improve on lat season's final place finish.
Fellow newcomers in winger Brian Tuohy, prop Jamie Hagan, lock Bernie Upton and No.8 Mike McComish have all made solid impressions on the coaching team.
The team will be announced on Thursday morning.
CONNACHT SQUAD (v The Ospreys): Andrew Browne, Fionn Carr, Sean Cronin, Gavin Duffy, Adrian Flavin, Jamie Hagan, Ian Keatley, Keith Matthews, Mike McComish, Robbie Morris, John Muldoon, Frank Murphy, Troy Nathan, Miah Nikora, Johnny O’Connor, Ray Ofisa, Conor O’Loughlin, Michael Swift, Niva Ta’auso, Brian Tuohy, Bernie Upton, Brett Wilkinson.