Whitten signs for Exeter Exiles

The 24-year-old Irish international has agreed a two-year deal with the Aviva Premiership club.

Ian’s capture was announced by Exeter on Thursday and Ian told the West Country club’s website how much he was looking forward to the challenge.

“Obviously I’m delighted with the move,” he said. “It’s going to be a new challenge in a tough environment for me, but it’s one I am very much looking forward too.

“I was very impressed with the facilities at Exeter when I came over and also by all the people who seemed very friendly and made me feel very welcome. Testing myself in the Premiership is going to be great because it’s a very tough league and every week the challenge is there for you to take on.”

The 6ft 2in, 16-stone back was quick to praise the help and support he has received over the years from everyone at Ravenhill. He added: “It is always sad to move on from a club, especially because I’ve had a lot of good times at Ulster. But I see this as a new chapter for me in my career and I want to try something different. You can see Exeter are a club with real ambition and are moving in the right direction.

“Hopefully I can bring something to the squad and help finish off some of the opportunities the team create.”