FORMER Southend and Thurrock star Mike Stanley has joined Irish giants Ulster until the end of the season.

The 25-year-old fly half made his international debut for Samoa earlier on this season.

And he is now looking forward to continuing his career in Ireland.

"This is a great opportunity for me and a real privilege to play at such a great province like Ulster,” said Stanley.

“Irish rugby is known for having such passionate fans too so I'm really looking forward to experiencing that.

“I am also looking forward to getting to know the boys and to have the opportunity to play alongside some real class footballers.

“I just want to get stuck into it now."

Ulster are currently fifth in the Pro 12 table, five points behind leaders Ospreys.

Stanley will be in contention to make his debut against Edinburgh this weekend.

And Ulster team manager Bryn Cunningham is pleased to have brought the former Gable Hall School pupil to the club.

“Getting short-term replacements at this stage of the season is incredibly difficult so to obtain the services of someone with international experience and who has been in a pre-season programme with a Super Rugby squad in New Zealand is great for Ulster Rugby,” said Cunningham.

“With the current injury status in the squad, outside half was an area where we were a bit short.

“However, the imminent arrival of Mike will give us the comfort that we now have a more than capable back-up for Ian Humphreys.”