Jack Murphy says Ulster feel “really confident” as they prepare to host Racing 92 in Friday’s Challenge Cup opener at Affidea Stadium (20:00 GMT).
Murphy signed for Ulster in 2024 after his father Richie Murphy took on the coaching role.
The 21-year-old has established himself as Ulster’s first-choice fly-half, starting all five United Rugby Championship games this season, of which the Irish province have won four.
Having made three Champions Cup appearances last season, the former Leinster academy player starts against Racing on Friday – and is relishing a return to the European stage.
”[I’m] really excited to get going here at home against Racing, a huge French club who have unbelievable players all over the park. We’re all really looking forward to it and there’s a huge buzz in training,” he told BBC Sport NI.
”They’ve a lot of super star players, French internationals and overseas players they’ve brought in – a lot of power and flair.
“Morale is high in our camp though. We’ve won four out of our first five. We’re really confident going into this week and we take some learnings in too.”
Over the past few months, Ulster have introduced some quality additions to their squad, including South African back row Juarno Augustus and Australia prop Angus Bell.
”Juarno has been great for us. We know how good a player he is, but he’s also a really nice fella,” added Murphy.
”Angus Bell has come in as well. I’m sure he’ll impact the group in a great way.
“Watching him over the autumn for Australia, you can see how dynamic he is and how powerful he is.”
Murphy is satisfied with life at Ulster and the form that the squad have shown so far this term.
“Everybody came in the start of the year with a fresh mindset and everyone has bought into it. We feel like we’re flying high at the moment but we’re just focusing on the next one.
“I’m very happy and grateful to be playing for Ulster and I’m really enjoying it. It’s a great place to be on a Friday night.
“We’ve been playing some nice attacking rugby, but also trying to shore up our defence which has helped us a lot as well.”
